“Someone said I should STOP using feminine hygiene washes!” 

“Kegel exercises can help promote a healthy vagina!” 

“Eating plain yoghurt is linked to a healthy vagina?” 

I know right. There are many many popular notions regarding how to have a healthy vagina, but which one is correct? My name is Laura and I’m the sustainable lifestyle blogger behind Days Like Laura. I share wellness/self-care advice, simple & delicious plant-based recipes, eco-friendly travel guides, tips for low waste/eco-friendly living, my vintage & ethical street style, and more. Keep reading for what to do and eat to prevent gynaecological problems! 

What to DO? 

Choose the right workout clothes “Excess moisture can lead to vaginal irritation,” as said by a gynaecologist. Therefore, look for clothes that absorb moisture and allow your skin to breath to prevent being soaked in sweat during the workout. 

*Sign up for and keep an eye on my blog for Brands That Make Panties from Natural Materials!

Change out of your sweaty workout clothes right away! Yeast and bacteria thrive in a warm and moist environment, you may want to gently clean up and get changed after a workout class! 

NO soaps around your vagina: Our vagina is self-cleaning! Douching and washing it with soap or feminine products might disturb its normal pH and microbiome, which might cause infections and bacterial overgrowth. 

Pelvic floor exercises: Th vagina, bladder and cervix are supported by the pelvic floor, strengthened pelvic floor muscles could prevent urinary incontinence and increase sexual satisfaction! 

What to EAT? 

Red fruits and vegetables- Phytochemical's and Carotenoids could possibly inhibit the growth of tumor cells in female reproductive organs. The former are abundant in red fruits and veggies, e.g. red apples, carrots, beetroots, red pepper, red cabbage, etc. While the latter are found in carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges, etc. 

Soy products- The hormone-like substance Phytoestrogens in soy and soy products could reduce menopause symptoms like hot flushes and help with vaginal dryness in post-menopausal women. Also, soy and soy products are a good source of minerals like calcium and iron. 

Healthy fats and avocados- Omega-3 fatty acids help with circulation and may relieve vaginal dryness in post-menopausal women. Flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts and oily fish like salmon contain high amounts of omega-3. Moreover, our favourite avocados contain healthy fats, vitamin B-6 and potassium which can enhance lubrication and strengthen vaginal walls! 

*Check out my blog for more avocado recipe ideas, from desserts, toast toppers to dips! 

Cranberries- You might have heard about: drink cranberry juice to tackle UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections), but is it proved? YES! Studies have shown that the antioxidants and acidic compounds in cranberries are powerful infection fighters which are beneficial in the prevention of UTIs. TIPS: remember to go for fresh cranberries or natural and sugar-free juice! 

Probiotics- The yogurt advice is legit! Fermented food like yogurt and kimchi are probiotic-rich food, they help to balance your pH levels and prevent infections. Plus, the calcium in yogurt could help with PMS symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Our habits can greatly affect our health, but the above tips are easy to adopt- start by incorporating the foods into your diet bit by bit! You can always go to my blog for more inspiration. We are in this together!