A gynecologist discusses intimate hygiene and preventive measures for women over 35. What's important to know?

 

Generally, I recommend cleaning the external genitals (vulva) once a day. Internal cleaning or douching is not necessary, as the vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Cleaning too frequently or too harshly, such as with regular soap, can damage the naturally acidic protective barrier of the intimate area. As a gynecologist, I can recommend the VENYA Shower Foam due to its acidic pH value, because the intimate flora is sensitive and should be cleaned as gently as possible. The same applies to bowel/anal hygiene. Here, please be sure to clean from front to back and, if using washcloths, wash them at 60 degrees Celsius after each use.

 

What should be considered during your period?

Basically, nothing changes in your cleaning routine during your period. Anyone who feels the need to clean their intimate area twice a day is welcome to do so. I recommend one thorough cleaning and one time using only water. It is more important to change pads and other hygiene products regularly.
There is no need for intimate deodorants or similar products, as these either cause too much irritation or are only effective for a short time.

 

Which preventive measures should every woman over 35 have checked by her gynecologist?

Ideally, there is a relationship of trust between the patient and the treating physician, who is aware of any pre-existing conditions, knows your cycle history, etc. A manual examination, including the breasts and lymph nodes, is standard and should be carried out regularly. I recommend this twice a year, accompanied by regular self-examination at home.

From age 50, a rectal examination is integrated into the manual examination. Also standard between the ages of 25 and 34 is a PAP smear; from the age of 35, a combination test consisting of a PAP smear and an HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) test is standard every three years.

Anyone with a notable family history can seek advice from their gynecologist and, if necessary, be included in a special, more intensive screening program. There are now many optional extra medical services (IGEL services) available that can certainly be useful, such as a breast MRI, for example.

 

Vaginal dryness after childbirth – what helps?

As a mother of 5 children, I know that childbirth demands a lot from us women, both mentally and physically. And these massive changes affect many areas, for example, your sex life. A previously unknown burning sensation is frequently described in my daily practice. This is because almost all women have a very dry vagina after childbirth and during breastfeeding due to hormonal reasons – even if very few speak about it openly.

Vaginal ointments, which are available in large numbers at the pharmacy, provide quick relief until things return to normal. Later, approaching menopause, the vagina also becomes drier, and such lubricating creams are also very useful here. It's time to break the taboo – almost every woman suffers from this problem from time to time.