To maintain vaginal hygiene, many women use special instruments for internal douching. However, several early studies have found links between vaginal douching and yeast infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ectopic pregnancy. Recently, a new national study published in the American journal *Epidemiology* found for the first time that vaginal douching can almost double the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
In response, Pan Xiaoyu, Deputy Chief Physician of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at China-Japan Friendship Hospital, explained that although there are currently no studies in China on the link between vaginal douching and the risk of ovarian cancer, unscientific vaginal douching methods do indeed pose significant risks. Normally, the vagina has a normal flora that maintains a slightly acidic pH environment, giving it a natural defense mechanism to resist most pathogens. However, many women are unaware of this and douche on their own, which can lead to the growth of other microorganisms, causing various vaginal inflammations and affecting their health. Therefore, it is not recommended to douche under normal circumstances. In daily life, "cleaning the private parts" mainly refers to rinsing the vulva. Daily bowel movements and urination can pollute the vulvar environment, so it is recommended to rinse the vulva daily. It is best to use a warm water shower, or you can prepare a small basin and wash from front to back with warm water, first washing the vulva, labia majora and minora, and finally cleaning the area around the anus and the anus itself. Note that you should not use strongly alkaline soaps when washing, as they can disrupt the natural environment of the vulva. In special circumstances, such as during menstruation, it's important to change sanitary napkins frequently and wash the vulva with warm water once or twice daily. However, if significant discomfort occurs, such as vulvar itching, increased vaginal discharge that is yellowish-green, cottage cheese-like, or has a fishy odor, it's best to consult a doctor. The doctor will determine the extent of the vaginal infection based on the discharge test results and then decide on medication and whether vaginal douching is necessary. The doctor will provide appropriate guidance based on the specific situation. Therefore, women are advised against self-douching.
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