WOMAN
WOMEN
HYGIENE
FEMININE HYGIENE
FEMALE HYGIENE
VULVOVAGINAL HYGIENE
MENSTRUATION
TRICHOMONIASIS
YEAST INFECTION
GARDNERELLA
URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
MAINTAINING HYGIENE
BASIC GUILDLINES FOR VAGINAL INFECTIONS
EXAMPLES OF NON-INFECTIOUS VAGINITIS
EXAMPLES OF INFECTIOUS VAGINITIS
URETHRAL SYNDROME
HUMAN SKIN
BASIC SKIN CARE NEEDS
SKIN TYPES
HAIR CARE
LUBRICANT
LUBRICANT TYPES
FEMININE HYGIENE LINKS
FEMININE HYGIENE RESOURCES
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SECTION 1
FEMININE
HYGIENE
Feminine hygiene is a general euphemism
used to describe personal care products
used by women during menstruation,
vaginal discharge, and other bodily
functions related to the vulva.
Sanitary napkins Sanitary Towels,
pantiliners, tampons, menstrual cups,
and feminine wipes are the major
categories of feminine hygiene products.
Feminine_hygiene
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feminine_hygiene
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SECTION 2
FEMALE
HYGIENE
VAGINA
The vagina, is the
tubular tract leading
from the uterus to the
exterior of the body
in female placental
mammals and marsupials.
In common speech, the
term "vagina" is often
used inaccurately to
refer to the vulva or
the female genitals
generally; strictly
speaking, the vagina
is a specific internal
structure and the vulva
is the exterior genitalia
only.
It connects the vulva at
the outside to the cervix
of the uterus on the inside.
HEALTH
Condition of being well.
Freedom from sickness.
Sound medical condition.
HYGIENE
Rules of health,
Science of keeping well.
HYGIENIC
Favorable to health, healthful, sanitary,
Of health or hygiene.
HYGIENIST
An expert in hygiene.
PERSONAL
Private,
Individual,
Of or about the body,
Of or about a person.
SANITARY
Of or about health, favorable to health,
Preventing disease,
Free from dirt and filth.
SANITATION
The study, development and practical
application of sanitary measures.
SANITIZE
To make clean,
Remove germs from.
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SECTION 3
VULVOVAGINAL
HYGIENE
Vulvovaginal health
is the health and
sanitation of the
human female:
vulva,
vagina.
VAGINA
The vagina is a self-cleaning
organ and needs no special
treatment.
Doctors discourage Douching,
which upsets the balance of
vaginal flora and may cause
infection and other problems.
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SECTION 4
EXTRA
CARE
DURING
MENSTRUATION
During menstruation, the lining
of the uterus is shedding and
menstrual blood comes out of the
vagina.
While menstruation can be messy,
it is easily controlled with a
tampon or pad.
However, once the blood is
exposed to the air, it can produce
an odor. A strong odor should not
occur unless the person does not
bathe often enough.
To minimize odor and staining of
clothes, washing the genital area
at least once a day is recommended.
It is also recommended to change a
tampon every four to six hours
(a pad every two to four hours),
which will help control the odor and
the collection of blood.
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SECTION 5
TRICHOMONIASIS
Trichomoniasis, also referred to as
trich or TV, is an infection caused
by a protozoan called Trichomonas
vaginalis.
The symptoms include a discharge
that is foul-smelling, frothy, and
greenish-yellow; it causes:
severe itching,
painful and
frequent urination,
sometimes, pain in
the lower abdomen.
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SECTION 6
YEAST
INFECTION
A yeast infection, or candidiasis,
occurs when the yeast fungus called
Candida albicans, which is normally
found in the vagina and anus, grows
above normal levels.
The result is a thick, white, cottage
cheese-like discharge with:
itching,
redness,
burning.
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SECTION 7
GARDNERELLA
Gardnerella is an another bacterium
that is normally found in the vagina.
An infection occurs when the amount
of gardnerella bacteria increases,
causing symptoms
such as:
a gray or yellow,
fishy-smelling,
creamy discharge,
mild itching,
burning.
The smell may actually become worse
after washing since soap reduces acidity
and bacteria grow better in a less acidic
environment.
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SECTION 8
URINARY
TRACT
INFECTIONS
Urinary tract infections (UTI's)
can occur when bacteria from the
anus or vagina make their way
into the urethra and bladder.
Urinating helps to flush some of
the bacteria from the urinary
tract, but sometimes the bacteria
left behind can cause an infection.
Sexual intercourse, wiping from back
to front, or irritants used in a bath
(such as bubble bath or bath salts)
are common causes of UTI's.
The symptoms include:
painful and
frequent urination,
burning on urination,
blood in the urine,
a fever.
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SECTION 9
MAINTAINING
HYGIENE
The following measures are
advisable for keeping the
vulva and vagina healthy:
Washing once a day or so
with water but without
soap, since soap disturbs
the natural pH balance of
the vagina.
Other measures are seldom
necessary or advisable.
Two notable
examples:
1. "feminine hygiene sprays",
are unnecessary, may be
generally harmful, and have
been known to cause severe
allergic reactions.
2. Vaginal douching,
is generally not necessary
and has been implicated in
helping to cause bacterial
vaginosis (BV)
the Candidiasis,
("yeast infections").
After using the toilet,
wipe from the front toward
the back to avoid introducing
bacteria from the anal area
into the vulva.
Drink plenty of water and
urinate frequently and as
soon as possible when you
feel the need, to help
flush bacteria out of the
urinary tract and avoid
urinary tract infections.
For the same reason, try
to urinate before and
after sex.
Change out of a wet swimsuit
or other wet clothes as soon
as possible.
Avoid fragrances,
colors,
deodorants
in products
that contact
the vulva/vagina:
sanitary pads,
tampons,
toilet paper.
Some women who are sensitive
to these substances should
also avoid bubble baths and
some fabric detergents and
softeners.
Avoid wearing:
leather trousers,
tight jeans,
panties made of
nylon or other
synthetic fabrics,
or pantyhose without
an all-cotton crotch
not cotton covered by
nylon cut out the
nylon panel if necessary.
Anything which has been
in contact with the anal
area should be thoroughly
washed with soap and water
or a similar disinfectant
before coming in contact
with the vulva or vagina.
Use condoms,
practice safer sex,
know your sex partners,
ask sex partners to
practice basic hygiene
(soap and water) of the
genitals.
Use artificial lubrication
during the intercourse if
the amount are naturally
produced is too small.
Be careful with objects
inserted inside the vagina.
Improper insertion of objects
into any body opening can cause
damage:
infection,
cutting,
piercing,
trauma,
blood loss.
Women who are unable to walk are
more likely to have infections.
The problem can be prevented
according to above-mentioned
and following measures:
1. Wash crotch and rectal areas
with neutral soap and large
amount of warm running water,
every morning and evening.
The disabled person can sit on a
shower chair with an open seat or
on a toilet.
Use a shower head or a water
container to wash more directly.
2. Use towel and blowdryer to dry.
3. Apply a little body powder on
the skin of the areas to absorb
perspiration.
4. Avoid sitting on plastic or
synthetic materials.
5.Wear loose underpants and change
if soilage occurs.
The vaginas normal state is moist
and lubricated much like your mouth.
You should normally
produce about ½ to 1
tablespoon of fluid
a day.
This discharge of fluids is what keeps
your vagina clean and healthy.
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SECTION 10
BASIC
GUILDELINES
FOR
VAGINAL
INFECTIONS
Basic guidelines for recognizing
some common vaginal infections:
VAGINITIS
Vaginitis is the most common form
of vaginal infection in women, it
is divided into two categories:
Infectious,
non-infectious.
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SECTION 11
EXAMPLES
OF
NON-INFECTIOUS
VAGINITIS
NON-INFECTIOUS
VAGINITIS
Non-infectious vaginitis is when
women suffer from itching and
irritation with out having an
infection.
The symptoms are mild to moderate
itching accompanied by irritations.
Only a doctor can tell you for sure
it is non-infectious vaginits.
Some common causes
of non-infectious
vaginatis are:
allergic reactions
to soap spermicaldal
products.
Lotions or other
chemical irritants,
Some other causes
may be wearing tight
clothing and wet
bathing suits,
hormone fluctuations,
having sex,
perspiration,
vaginal dryness.
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SECTION 12
EXAMPLES
OF
INFECTIOUS
VAGINITIS
Some examples
of Infectious
Vaginitis are:
YEAST INFECTIONS
Yeast Infections has a thick,
white cottage cheese like
discharge.
Mild to sever itching,
redness and irritation.
This type of infections
is odorless.
BACTERIA VAGINOSIS (BV)
Bacteria Vaginosis (BV) has
a white grayish discharge
and is about the consistency
of milk.
You will notice a fishy
odor.
This odor may be more
pronounced during your
period or after having
sex.
TRICHOMONIASIS
Trichomoniasis will have large
amounts of a gray or greenish
yellow discharge.
Itching and swelling of the
vagina and vulva. It usually
has a fishy or foul odor.
Dealing with the odor and wetness:
Some tips for
dealing with
vaginal odor
and wetness.
Keep the vaginal area clean
and dry. Wash daily with a
gentle cleanser and warm water.
When cleaning the vaginal area
always wash from front to back
the helps prevent the spread of
bacteria from the anus to the
vagina.
Wear natural fibers, Cotton
undergarments and hose with a
cotton crotch these allow for
better airflow than nylon.
Avoid tight clothing as it can
trap moisture making it possible
for bacteria to grow.
Whenever possible wear skirts
without undergarments this provides
maximum airflow and keeps you dry.
Sprinkle cornstarch on underwear and
inside pantyhose to absorb moisture.
Keep anything that is used in the
vagina extremely clean.
Avoid douching as this washes away
the good bacteria that your body
needs to keep your vagina sweet
smelling and healthy.
Avoid over washing for the
same reason.
Over washing is when you are in
the bath or shower and you use
your fingers to rinse out the
vaginal cavity.
Dry the vaginal area after bathing
using a blow dryer on the low heat
setting.
Dealing with vaginal dryness:
Use water-based lubricants there
are several good ones on the market
and can be found in any grocery or
drug store.
Avoid lubricants that contain silicone
or petroleum jelly, as they are bad for
toys, diaphragms and condoms.
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SECTION 13
URETHRAL
SYNDROME
What is urethral syndrome?
Urethral syndrome is the presence
of symptoms of a urinary tract
infection when the usual evidence
of an infection is not found.
It is also sometimes called:
symptomatic abacteriuria:
which means having symptoms with
no bacteria. It occurs in adults
of all ages.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of urethral syndrome are:
pain and discomfort in the
lower abdomen.
a frequent urge to urinate.
in women:
pain around the vulvar region.
pain with urination.
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine you and
ask you to provide a clean-catch
urine specimen.
Your doctor may also order some
blood tests.
What can be done to help
prevent urethral syndrome?
Wear cotton underwear, which
allows better air circulation
than nylon.
Pantyhose should have a cotton
crotch.
Avoid tight clothes in the genital
area, such as control-top pantyhose
and tight jeans.
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SECTION 14
HUMAN
SKIN
The skin is the outer covering of the body.
In humans, it is the largest organ of the
integumentary system. The skin has multiple
layers of ectodermal tissue and guards the
underlying muscles, bones, ligaments and
internal organs. Human skin is similar to
that of most other mammals, except that it
is not protected by a pelt. Though nearly
all human skin is covered with hair
follicles, it appears hairless.
There are two general
types of skin,
hairy,
glabrous skin.
Because it interfaces with the environment,
skin plays a key role in protecting (the
body) against pathogens and excessive
water loss.
Its other functions are;
insulation,
temperature regulation,
sensation,
synthesis of vitamin D,
protection of vitamin
B folates.
Severely damaged skin will try to heal
by forming scar tissue. This is often
discolored and depigmented.
Human skin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_skin
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SECTION 15
4
BASIC
SKIN
CARE
NEEDS
The right (& wrong) ways to cleanse,
moisturize & exfoliate your skin.
The Basic 4-Step Skincare Regimen
Step 1: Cleansing
Simple is key here. You need to find a good
cleanser that your skin responds well to,
and stick with it.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Exfoliation is the step most people skip in
their weekly skincare routine. But trust me,
if you start properly exfoliating your skin,
you will notice an almost immediate difference.
According to Berg, one of the reasons men's
skin looks more youthful than women's is
because men tend to exfoliate daily when
they shave.
There are several ways
to exfoliate skin:
Microdermabrasion,
chemical peels,
retinoids.
Step 3: Moisturize
While I know of at least one famous beauty
editor who swore skin doesn't need
moisturizer, basically everyone else I've
read disagrees and is an adamant believer
in it. A basic law of beauty is that
everyone, no matter her skin type, should
moisturize. Even if your skin is oily, it
will benefit from moisturizers.
So how much should you moisturize? Your
skin will tell you. When your skin is
tight, it's crying out for moisture. Be
careful not to overmoisturize -- this
can clog pores.
Step 4: Apply Sunscreen
The number-1 cause of wrinkles is sun
damage, so it's important to use
sunscreen from your early years on even
in winter and on cloudy days. A great
trick is to purchase two moisturizers:
One for night and one for day that
includes UV protection. Don't use
moisturizers with sunscreen at night,
the ingredients are not meant to be
used 27/7 and can aggravate skin. When
choosing a sunscreen, make sure it
contains Mexoryl.
Basic Skin Care
http://beauty.about.com/od/skinflaws/a/basicskincare.htm
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SECTION 16
SKIN
TYPES
What Type of Skin Do You Have?
Find out the difference between:
oily,
normal,
dry skin.
There are five basic skin care types: Oily,
combination, sensitive, dry and sun-damaged.
Your skin type is determined by how much --
or how little -- oil your skin produces.
Genes, diet, stress level, medication and
even your skincare regimen all determine how
much oil your skin produces.
Wash your face, pat it dry, then take a few
pieces of rice paper or lens-cleaning tissue
paper and press on different spots on your
face. If your skin is oily, the paper will
stick, pick up oily spots and become
translucent.
If the paper doesn't stick or pick up any
oily spots, your skin is dry. If it sticks
in your t-zone (forehead, nose and chin)
then you have combination (or normal) skin.
About 70 percent of women have combination
skin.
Here are the five
different skin types
and their characteristics.
Type 1: Oily Oily skin tends to shiny with
enlarged pores, and is prone to blackheads
and blemishes. You might experience some
tightness.
Type 2: Combination/normal This skin type
has medium pores, a smooth and even texture,
good circulation, healthy color, may tend
toward dryness on the cheeks while being
oily in the t-zone.
Type 3: Sensitive Sensitive skin tends to
be thin, delicate with fine pores. It
flushes easily, is prone to broken
capillaries, is frequently allergic and
can be rashy.
Type 4: Dry Dry skin feels tight, especially
after cleansing. You have a tendency towards
fine wrinkles, flaking and red patches. In
women of color, skin may appear ashy or dull
from dead skin buildup.
Type 5: Aging or sun-damaged This skin also
feels tight with visible wrinkles, slack
skin tone -- especially around the cheeks
and jawline -- with leathery texture and
broken capillaries.
SKIN TYPES
http://beauty.about.com/od/skinflaws/a/skintypes.htm
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SECTION 17
HAIR
CARE
Hair care is an overall term for parts of
hygiene and cosmetology involving the hair
on the human head. Hair care will differ
according to one's hair type and according
to various processes that can be applied
to hair. All hair is not the same; indeed,
hair is a manifestation of human diversity.
'Hair care' is taken to mean care of hair
on the human head, but mention should be
made of process and services which impact
hair on other parts of the body. This
includes men‘s and women’s facial, pubic,
and other body hair, which may be dyed
trimmed, shaved, plucked, or otherwise
removed with treatments such as waxing,
sugaring, and threading.
These services are offered in salons,
barbers, and day spas, and products are
available commercially for home use.
Laser hair removal and electrolysis are
also available, though these are provided
(in the US) by licensed professionals in
medical offices or speciality spas.
Hair Care
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_care
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SECTION 18
LUBRICANT
Virtually all lubes on the market today
fall into one of three categories:
1- Water-based;
2- Silicone-based; and,
3- Oil-based
Each of these has their advantages and
disadvantages. For most situations though,
water-based lubes are by far the most
popular.
Tyler HauckSex Education Correspondent
Lubricant
http://www.askmen.com/dating/love_tip_150/188_love_tip.html
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SECTION 19
LUBRICANT
TYPES
WATER-BASED
Water-based lube is generally considered
to be the safest all-purpose lubrication.
It is also popular since many people find
it to be non-irritating and it does not
cause latex to deteriorate. Some women
find that water-based lubes containing
glycerin or sugar can potentially cause
yeast infections, particularly if they're
already prone to getting them.
OIL-BASED
Oil-based lubes are no longer recommended
as a form of lubrication for safer sex.
The oil can leave a coating on the rectum
or vagina that can lead to bacterial or
other infections. Oil-based lubes can
also break down latex condoms, dams,
gloves, other latex safer-sex products,
diaphragms, and cervical caps, thus
reducing their effectiveness. This is
important to consider if you apply
oil-based lubes to latex condoms on sex
toys or toys that are made of latex.
SILICONE-BASED
Silicone-based lubes are a newer form of
lubrication. They have become quite popular
since they are safe to use with all condoms
and any latex products. Silicone-based
lubes are also longer lasting than
water-based lubes. However, they can be a
bit harder to wash off and some women report
irritation if the silicone lube is left on
for too long.
LUBRICANT TYPES
http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/3426.html
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SECTION 20
FEMININE
HYGIENE
LINKS
Ask Men.com
http://www.askmen.com/
Beauty Tips: Hair Care Tips
http://www.free-beauty-tips.com/haircare.html
Dermalogica USA
http://www.dermalogica.com/
Doctor P. Body explains: What is hygiene?
http://www.drpbody.com/hygiene.html
Emergency Sanitation & Hygiene
http://www.lifesecure.com/EmergencyHygiene.asp
FACTS ABOUT LUBS
http://www.mypleasure.com/lube/index.asp
Female Hygiene
http://www.mykamasutra-positions.com/female_hygiene.html
Free Skin Care
http://www.freeskincare.net/
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Go Ask Alice!
http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/
HAIR CARE
http://www.haircarehints.com/
Hair Care Guide.com
http://www.haircareguide.com/
How to Wash Your Hair Without Shampoo
http://www.wikihow.com/Wash-Your-Hair-Without-Shampoo
www.iibc.com/
http://International Information On Skin Care
Natural Woman
http://www.natural-woman.com/
Skin Care
http://www.naturalskincare-uk.co.uk/xcart/home.php
TEEN GROWTH
http://www.teengrowth.com/
Woman hygiene
http://www.RightHealth.com
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SECTION 21
FEMININE
HYGIENE
RESOURCES
Sanitary napkin Maxi pad
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanitary_napkin
Pantiliner
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantiliner
Tampon
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampon
Menstrual cup
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menstrual_cup
Menstruation
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menstruation
Vaginal discharge
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaginal_discharge
Vulva
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vulva
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GYNECOLOGY
HEALTH-INDEX
HEALTH SCIENCE
KEGEL EXERCISES FOR WOMEN
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS (STIs)
TYPES OF HUMAN VAGINA SHAPE/SIZE
VAGINAL HEALTH
VAGINAL HYGIENE
WOMEN HEALTH
WOMEN-INDEX HOME PAGE
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