Almost half of the world has a vagina, yet myths about feminine hygiene still exist. But here at WH, we want to share with you what the science – not the stigma – says about keeping your private parts healthy.
So, of course, we went all-in on MythBusters (minus the beret and facial hair) to debunk five big myths about feminine hygiene—and what women really need to know to feel confident in their own skin.
58% of people are embarrassed or unaware of the importance of talking about gynecological health with friends and family.
Why are so many women ashamed when talking about vaginas?
There is still far too much shame, silence and misinformation surrounding feminine hygiene – even though every woman should feel comfortable talking about it. This lack of open conversations has led to myths that can be damaging to women’s confidence, self-image, and even their health.
According to a 2024 WHO global report, only 39% of schools worldwide provide menstrual health education, and in sub-Saharan Africa, only 11% have menstrual waste bins in girls’ toilets. The result? Generations of women have grown up with limited information about their own bodies.
Here in South Africa the problem is compounded by access and inequality. According to Health-e News, a nonprofit online publication that focuses on health issues in South Africa, about 35% of women and girls – about 7.7 million people – cannot afford sanitary products. When something as natural as menstruation still comes with cost and shame, it’s no wonder intimate health conversations are lagging behind.
But not anymore – so let’s talk and dispel myths.
READ MORE: Is there anything you can eat to make your vagina smell good? Further questions about sexual health are also answered
1. Myth: You need to clean your vagina thoroughly
Fact: The vagina is self-cleaning.
You really don’t. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. It naturally maintains a delicate balance of healthy bacteria and a slightly acidic pH (usually between 3.8 and 4.2) to protect against infections and maintain optimal vaginal health.
According to a 2023 study published in the journal Microorganisms, excessive cleaning with soaps or douching can disrupt this natural microbiome, making irritation and infections more likely.
However, internal cleaning remains widespread: a 2007 South African household survey found that 63.3% of women reported internal vaginal washing, 61.6% cleaned twice daily, and one in five women used two or more products.
How to Clean Your Vagina Properly (Without Causing Damage)
Keep it simple. All you need to do is clean the vulva – the outer area – with warm water or a mild pH-balanced product. Avoid using scented soaps, wipes or interior detergents (which can remove protective bacteria) and disrupt the body’s natural balance.
Conclusion: Your vagina already knows how to take care of itself. Pay attention to gentle, external care – less is really more.
2. Myth: If it smells or has discharge, something is wrong
Fact: Normal discharge is healthy and protective.
Some discharge is completely normal and may have a slight odor (but it should not be strong or unpleasant). This is all part of your body’s natural cleansing process. The amount of discharge can vary from person to person and can change over the course of your menstrual cycle, said Pretoria-based gynecologist Dr. Sebolelo Mojaki previously told WH.
The problem starts when people try to “mask” odors with scented sprays or scented panty liners – which can actually disrupt pH levels and irritate sensitive skin. If you ever notice a strong, unpleasant odor, itching, discomfort, or unusual discharge (including changes in color or texture), you should contact a doctor – not your perfume shelf. Otherwise, the discharge is healthy and protective.
READ MORE: 7 Common Things That Make Your Vagina Smell Weird
Instead, try these: Healthy feminine hygiene habits that balance your pH
- Wear breathable cotton underwear
- Remove damp clothing, sportswear or swimwear
- Use gentle, fragrance-free wipes if necessary
Conclusion: Discharge means your body is doing its job—and covering up natural scents with perfume is more risky than soothing.
3. Myth: All bacteria is bad – use strong soap to stay clean
Fact: Good bacteria keep your vagina healthy.
Not all bacteria are bad. In fact, good bacteria are your vagina’s best defenders. The vaginal microbiome helps regulate pH and prevents the overgrowth of harmful microbes, according to a 2023 microorganism study.
Using harsh soaps or antiseptics can kill both the “bad” and “good” bacteria, disrupting the balance and increasing the risk of irritation, thrush or bacterial vaginosis.
Instead, do this: pH-friendly feminine care that supports good bacteria
Use a microbiome-friendly, pH-balanced detergent that supports your body’s natural, healthy flora. Some intimate products, like those from GynaGuard, contain prebiotics and probiotics to encourage healthy bacteria to thrive.
Conclusion: Good bacteria keep you balanced. Choose products that support them – not take them away.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about a Pap smear
4. Myth: Feminine hygiene is only for sexually active or older women
Fact: Vaginal care is important at every age and at every stage of life.
Intimate hygiene is important at every stage of life – from puberty to menopause. According to Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause affect vaginal pH and discharge patterns.
In fact, even stress, medications (e.g. antibiotics), and lifestyle factors can affect balance, regardless of sexual activity.
Conclusion: Every woman – no matter her age or stage – deserves to understand and care for her body.
5. Myth: Talking about feminine hygiene is embarrassing
Fact: Open conversations create trust.
According to a 2020 study by the Lady Garden Foundation, 58% of people are either embarrassed or unaware of the importance of talking about gynecological health with friends and family. And silence creates stigma. Open, honest conversations about intimate health allow women to make informed decisions and feel less isolated.
Health experts, educators and advocates encourage women to approach intimate wellness with the same openness as skin care or fitness. And here at WH we are fully committed to this mission!
Why open conversations about vaginal health are important
Breaking the taboo means building self-confidence and giving women the language to talk about their bodies without shame. When you talk about vaginal health, you don’t want to “overdo” it, but rather you’re informed.
Conclusion: When you talk about intimate health, you help reduce shame and create space for confidence, comfort, and self-esteem.
READ MORE: Why it’s important to talk about your period and how to do it
Trust starts with the facts
When myths are replaced with knowledge, women gain the confidence to take care of their bodies – without shame or confusion. Feminine hygiene is not taboo. It’s just another part of a healthy, confident life.
If you experience irritation, discomfort, or changes in discharge or smell, don’t panic – just contact your primary care doctor or gynecologist for reassurance.