10. You've Got Too Aggressive In The Shower
One of the many superpowers of the vagina is that it’s self-cleaning — meaning that all those companies trying to get you to buy their douching products are pretty much trying to sell you snake oil.
“Washing with water is all that is needed to clean the vaginal skin,” Dr. Loanzon says. “Over indulgence to 'cleanse' the vagina may be worsening your symptoms, best to avoid the offending agent.”
It can't be said enough that a vagina is supposed to smell like a vagina and not some freshly-picked floral bouquet. Trying to make it smell un-vagina-like with feminine washes, soaps, and/or perfumes can result in chronic hypersensitivity reactions known as contact dermatitis, according to Dr. Loanzon, which may result in below-the-belt itching, discomfort, or odors.
11. You're Having An Orgasm
When you're about to have an orgasm , things start moving inside. It's not just the walls of your uterus that start fluttering but your vagina and anus, too. (Fun fact: If your vagina is British or adopting a UK-style accent, your vagina may think of it as a “fanny flutter.” ) You can feel the pressure building in your vagina as your pelvic floor gets ready to do its thing. Once you hit that climax, all that fluttering inside transitions to straight up contractions as your vaginal muscles contract, then release.
If you experience that, along with a full body rush and vaginal tingling, then there's a good chance you've just had an orgasm! And an orgasm doesn't necessarily need to come from getting hot and heavy with your partner. Your vagina doesn't discriminate, and sometimes, stimulation from external forces, like a train seat or workout, can lead you to an orgasm too.
12. You've Hit Your Workout Routine A Little Too Hard
If you're sitting on a stationary bike or riding your bike for hours, you may experience an aching sensation in your vagina. The same goes if you use a sex toy for too long , with too much pressure. Another potential injury to your vagina you may experience during your trip to the gym: Friction burns and chafing, which may occur if your workout gear or underwear is too tight.
Cycling , in particular, can put excess pressure in your nether regions. Once in a while it is NBD, but over time, studies have suggested that this could lead to reduced sensation. One quick fix: Switch your setup so you're sitting more upright as opposed to hunched over, which will put less pressure down there.
13. It's Time To Change Those Leggings
Hanging out for too long in sweaty workout leggings or a bathing suit can lead to bacterial overgrowth , which can cause itching, discomfort, or excessive discharge from your vagina. But since these symptoms can be a sign of an infection, it's a good idea to talk to a doc about anything itchy or uncomfortable down there.
But in the meantime, it's a good time to have a heart to heart with your vagina about your wardrobe choices. Every vagina is different, and some vaginas (and their owners) appreciate the comfort that comes from going commando , while other vaginas like the support provided by undies . Either way, make sure they fit, make sure they're fresh, and change as soon as you get sweaty or when your clothes get wet for a happy vagina.
Studies referenced:
Kwan, I. (2015) “Premenstrual syndrome.” British Medical Journal.
Partin, S. and others (2012) “ The bar sinister: does handlebar level damage the pelvic floor in female cyclists? ” Journal of Sexual Medicine.
Sorenson, J. and others (2018) “Evaluation and treatment of female sexual pain.” Cureous.
Experts:
Dr. Sheila Loanzon , board certified OB-GYN and author
Dr. Peter Rizk , women's health expert for Fairhaven HealthHealth
Dr. Allison Hill , OB/GYN and Florajen chief medical correspondent
