7 Most FAQs About Intimate Wipes, Answered By An OB-GYN

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When it comes to women's wellness products, the market is flooded with millions of products and options to choose from. The latest hot drop being intimate wipes. While we've been acquainted with wet wipes since, well, we wore pampers, these ones don't fall very from the tree. And while they might seem as the most genius creation, there's also been a ton of hogwash surrounding intimate wipes. So, to get things straightened, we spoke to Dr Sushma Tomar, Consultant - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, as they answered the most frequently asked questions about intimate wipes.

The Anatomy Of Intimate Wipes

Intimate wipes are ultra-thin small towels used to clean the vulva, vagina, and anal area. Many women use it during menstruation, although it can also be used to protect oneself from urinary infections. Since the vagina has an acidic pH and is sensitive to various infections caused by yeast, bacteria, and fungus, keeping the intimate areas of the body clean and dry is very important for a person's overall health.

Safety And Frequency Of Using Them

Wipes are safe to clean vulva, inguinal, and anal areas, especially if you are travelling and do not have access to clean water to clean up. However, it is recommended that these wipes not be used to clean the vagina as it is essential to maintain the pH ratio in these areas. As fragrant wipes can sometimes cause allergies, yeast infections, and burning, it is best to clean this area with only clean water and soap, if required.

A Necessary Evil (or not)

In the Indian context, it is always better to wash intimate areas with clean water and mild soap. However, if one chooses to use an intimate wipe in an emergency, that is also fine. A key piece of advice is that all these wipes should be used only once, and the cleaning process should be from the vulva to the anal area (front to back), not vice versa. If this technique is not followed, there is a high chance that the person can get infections, especially in their vaginal areas.

What To Avoid, What To Accept

While all the wipes in the market are of good quality, they must be free of perfumes. Aloe Vera as a moisture ingredient is acceptable in these wipes. Also, it is best to do a small test of these wipes to see that they do not cause infections, before using them for the long term. While intimate wipes are a good option for those who do not have access to clean water or travel for long hours, it is best to avoid daily use of these intimate wipes.

Is It Clean, Or Is it 'Monica Clean?'

As mentioned above, these wipes should not be considered an alternative to clean water and mild soap as they are the best products to clean intimate areas. However, these wipes do a decent job in cleaning intimate areas, as it is better to clean these areas, especially during menstruation and sexual activity, so there is a low possibility of infections.

Only Surviving On Wipes

*In the context of travelling, or when you have limited/ no access to water.

Cleaning with water is the best solution, as the vagina has self-cleaning properties. However, since many people are more prone to infections in these areas, intimate wipes could be carried to have an alternative at hand.

Side Effects And pH Balances

In a natural environment, the pH value of the vagina is always maintained so that it works as a bacterial protector. This means that when someone uses an intimate wipe more than required, there is a chance that their pH value can get affected, thereby increasing the risk of infection. If you are still confused, it is best to consult you OB-GYN, so that they can guide you better on how to take care of your intimate areas.