Personal hygiene is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being, encompassing a range of practices that promote cleanliness and prevent the spread of germs and infections. This article/post aims to shed light on this crucial aspect. 

Male Hygiene

While not much importance has been placed on male hygiene over the years, this does not make it any less important. Highlighted below are the essential hygiene tips for males:

1. Daily bathing: Regular showers or baths help remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria from the body, preventing unpleasant odours and skin infections. It is NOT normal or acceptable for a guy to smell of sweat. 

2. Genital care: Proper cleaning of the penis and scrotum is crucial. Washing with mild soap and water ensures cleanliness and reduces the risk of infections. An extra step of cleanliness is needed in uncircumcised males to ensure pulling back the prepuce/foreskin and cleaning underneath to avoid the buildup of “smegma”- the buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and body fluid under the foreskin.

3. Underwear selection: Wearing breathable, clean, well-fitted underwear is essential to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of fungal or bacterial infections. This also helps to avoid overheating the testicles, which can lead to lower sperm quality. 

4. Proper toileting: After urination or bowel movements, it is vital to keep the genital area dry. A wet and moist genitals is a breeding ground for all sorts of germs.

Female Hygiene

Female hygiene cannot be overemphasised, as females are more likely to suffer the consequences of poor hygiene. Below are highlighted main tips. 

1. Menstrual hygiene: Proper handling of menstrual products, such as using clean pads or tampons and changing them regularly. This is vital to prevent infections and maintain comfort during menstruation. Blood is a great medium for bacteria, so extra care is needed during menstruation to change tampons, pads, and menstrual cups in a timely fashion.

2. Genital care: Washing the genital area with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh douches, and ensuring thorough drying can help prevent vaginal infections and discomfort.

3. Proper wiping technique: After using the bathroom, women should wipe from front to back to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the vagina, thus reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. 

4. Vaginal flora maintenance: Avoid using scented products or excessive cleaning of the vagina, as these practices can disrupt the natural pH balance and lead to infections.

5. Comfortable clothing: Wearing breathable and clean underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing helps reduce moisture buildup and promotes vaginal health.

Below, I will quickly highlight common Harmful Myths/Practices to Avoid

1. Douching: Douching is the practice of cleaning/rinsing the vagina (not the vulva) with water or other cleaning substances. Douching is unnecessary and can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora, leading to infections and other health issues.

2. “Natural” cleansing products: Many so-called “natural” products may contain irritants that can harm sensitive genital tissues. Stick to mild, unscented soaps for cleaning of the vulva. 

3. Withholding urine: Delaying urination can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other complications. Always use the restroom when needed.

Conclusion:

Maintaining good hygiene is of paramount importance when it comes to reproductive health and holistic well-being. Poor hygiene practices can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, increase the risk of infections, and create an environment conducive to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

In females, improper hygiene can lead to vaginal infections, UTIs, and even more severe conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). In males, lack of hygiene can contribute to genital infections and discomfort. 

Practising good hygiene also plays a crucial role in fertility and conception. Infections and inflammations in the reproductive organs can affect sperm and egg health, hindering the chances of successful fertilisation. Therefore, individuals can safeguard their reproductive health and overall well-being by prioritising personal hygiene.

Esther Yemisi Oluwadeyi, MD 

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