If you’re a woman exploring egg freezing, thinking about fertility, or simply learning more about your reproductive health, you may be wondering what role vaginal hygiene plays. The truth is, this is one of those topics surrounded by misinformation, from old wives’ tales to social media “detox” trends.
Your vagina is self-cleaning. It doesn’t need fancy products or complicated routines to stay healthy. In fact, many of the “hacks” you see online can actually do more harm than good.
This article explains why vaginal hygiene matters for fertility health, clears up common myths, and shares practical, shame-free tips you can use every day.
Why vaginal hygiene matters for fertility health
When we talk about vaginal hygiene, we are really talking about balance. The vagina has its own natural ecosystem, called the vaginal microbiome. This community of bacteria, most often dominated by lactobacillus, helps maintain a slightly acidic pH that protects against harmful bacteria and yeast. When this balance is in place, it supports comfort, prevents infection, and keeps everything functioning the way it should.
Why does this matter? When the microbiome becomes disrupted, the risk of issues like bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and general inflammation goes up. These conditions are not only uncomfortable, they can also affect overall reproductive health. For women who are trying to conceive, for example, an imbalance may make it more difficult for sperm to survive and thrive. For those preparing for procedures like egg freezing, infections or inflammation can complicate the process and may even delay a cycle. And for others simply focused on day-to-day well-being, keeping this natural balance intact is one of the most important ways to support long-term vaginal health.
Common vaginal hygiene myths and misconceptions
The bottom line when it comes to vaginal hygiene is that it is less about external products or rituals and more about supporting the body’s natural ability to protect itself.
Myth 1: Douching is necessary
Douching can actually disrupt your vaginal microbiome and increase infection risk. Your vagina cleans itself naturally with discharge, so it is not something that needs to be “flushed out.” Both the CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advise against routine douching because it raises the risk of BV, pelvic inflammatory disease, and other complications. If you ever feel like you want or need to douche, the safest step is to check in with a healthcare provider first. They can help you understand what might be causing your symptoms, test for imbalances or infections, and suggest solutions.
Myth 2: Scented products mean “clean”
From scented wipes to floral washes, marketing often suggests that fragrance equals freshness. In reality, perfumes, fragrances, and harsh cleansers irritate the vaginal lining, leading to even more discharge, itching, or even infection. True “freshness” comes from balance, not fragrance.
Myth 3: Period blood is “dirty”
Menstrual blood is simply blood and uterine lining. It is not waste or toxins. Periods are a normal, healthy part of reproductive life, not something that needs to be cleansed away. The idea that period blood is dirty has deep roots, but science shows us otherwise.
Myth 4: You need to “detox” or steam your vagina
From herbal steam baths to detox pearls, these trends often claim to cleanse or reset the vagina. In reality, steaming can actually cause burns or irritation, and detox products can upset the vaginal microbiome. Your vagina does not need detoxing; it is already self-cleaning.
Myth 5: Vaginal discharge is always a sign of infection
Discharge is actually a normal and healthy part of the menstrual cycle. Its color, consistency, and amount can change depending on where you are in your cycle. While sudden changes or strong odors may signal infection, most discharge is simply your body’s way of keeping things clean and balanced.
Myth 6: Tight underwear or clothing causes infections
Wearing tight pants or non-cotton underwear can sometimes trap moisture and make irritation more likely, but they do not directly cause infections like BV or yeast. If you prefer fitted clothing, balance it out with breathable fabrics and avoid wearing damp workout clothes for too long.
Myth 7: You should use special “pH-balancing” washes
Many products market themselves as balancing your vaginal pH, but most are unnecessary. A healthy vagina maintains its own pH through the microbiome. These washes often disrupt that balance, sometimes creating the very problems they claim to solve.
Myth 8: You can reset your vaginal health with probiotics or supplements
Oral or vaginal probiotics may help in some cases, but they are not a guaranteed fix since everyone has their own unique microbiome. Vaginal health is about the overall balance of that microbiome, which is influenced by lifestyle, hormones, and medical history. Supplements should never replace professional care if you are experiencing symptoms.
Myth 9: Shaving or waxing makes you cleaner
Removing pubic hair is a personal preference, not a hygiene requirement. Hair actually provides a natural barrier that protects against irritation and infection. Going bare does not make you “cleaner.”
Myth 10: More frequent washing is better
Overwashing, especially with soap inside the vagina, strips away protective bacteria and can make infections more likely. Once a day external cleansing is plenty and you only really need water. Do not wash the inside of the vagina with soap!
Everyday tips for maintaining vaginal health
Now that we’ve addressed some of the most common misconceptions, what does effective vaginal care actually look like? The good news is that the healthiest habits are usually the simplest ones.
- Stick to gentle cleansing. Warm water alone is enough. If you prefer, choose a mild, unscented soap and wash only the vulva (the external parts), not inside the vagina. The product brands I typically recommend to my patients include Dove, Cerave, Cetaphil, Eucerin, Vanicream, Aquanil, and Aveeno. Make sure you choose the products that are both scent and fragrance-free!
- Opt for breathable fabrics. Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes reduce trapped moisture and irritation.
- Mind your lifestyle. Hydration, balanced nutrition, and stress management all play a role in supporting a healthy vaginal environment. Even small shifts—like limiting overly processed foods, sugar, or prioritizing sleep—can help. What you eat, how you sleep, how hydrated you are, and even your stress levels all affect vaginal health. Hygiene is not only about what you put on your body, but also how you support it from the inside.
When to see a provider
Even with the best self-care habits, infections can happen. Knowing when to seek medical advice is an important part of protecting your reproductive health.
Check in with a provider if you notice:
- Unusual discharge, whether that’s in color, odor, or consistency
- Itching, burning, or irritation
- Painful urination or sex
For those preparing for an egg freezing cycle, it can be helpful to schedule a gynecological checkup before beginning protocol. Providers can screen for common infections such as BV, yeast, or STIs that might interfere with the process and make sure you are set up for the best possible outcome.
The bottom line
When in doubt, talk to your OB-GYN or care provider. They can help you understand what is normal, address any symptoms that feel off, and support your overall reproductive health.
And if you are considering egg freezing, Cofertility can help. Through our Split program, you can freeze your eggs for free when you donate half of the eggs retrieved to intended parents who can’t otherwise conceive. You will be paired with a dedicated Member Advocate who will guide you through the process, including the do’s and don’ts of your cycle, and connect you with a trusted clinic to ensure you have the support you need at every step.
Your vagina already knows what it’s doing. Support it with gentle care, watch for red flags, and reach out to a provider when something feels off. Less really is more when it comes to the vagina!
