Bubble baths are bad for vaginal health: Myth or fact?

After an extended day, stress-free in a bath filled with bubbles might seem to be probably the most flattering type of self-care. It will probably present a spa-like expertise within the consolation of your individual dwelling – you probably have a bath, that’s. Although it might assist to alleviate muscle ache and ache, a bubble tub will not be so good on your vagina. Soaking in bubble baths with perfume and harsh chemical compounds can enhance the danger of vaginal irritation or infections, particularly for individuals who could also be already at a danger of infections down there. Learn on to know extra about how bubble baths can have an effect on vaginal well being.

What are bubble baths?

Bubble baths are baths during which a product, normally a liquid cleaning soap or tub gel, is added to the water to create bubbles. These bubbles can improve the washing expertise by offering a way of rest. Bubble tub merchandise usually include surfactants, that are substances that scale back the floor pressure of water, permitting bubbles to kind simply, says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Deepa Dewan. They normally include fragrances, moisturisers, and different substances designed to nourish and pamper the pores and skin.

How can bubble baths be dangerous for the vagina?

Bubble baths might be gratifying, however could also be dangerous to the vaginal space as a result of a number of causes:

1. Disruption of pH stability

The pH (potential of hydrogen) of the vagina is of course acidic, which helps preserve a wholesome stability of micro organism and prevents infections. Bubble tub merchandise, notably these containing harsh surfactants and fragrances, can disrupt the pure pH stability of the vagina, resulting in irritation and irritation, says the professional.

2. Elevated danger of urinary tract infections

In response to a 2013 research revealed within the Sultan Qaboos College Medical Journal, pores and skin allergens launched to the genital space, resembling bubble tub liquids, might alter vaginal flora and in the end lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bubble tub substances might irritate the urethra, making it extra inclined to an infection.

3. Vaginal dryness

Harsh surfactants and detergents in bubble tub merchandise can strip the pores and skin of its pure oils, resulting in vaginal dryness and irritation down there. This will even trigger discomfort throughout intercourse

4. Vaginal yeast an infection

Bubble baths can doubtlessly contribute to vaginal yeast an infection (candidiasis), says Dr Dewan. The fragrances and harsh detergents can disrupt the pure pH stability of the vagina, creating an atmosphere conducive to yeast overgrowth.
Extended publicity to moisture, notably in heat, soapy water, may also promote the expansion of yeast within the vaginal space.

What to bear in mind whereas having bubble tub?

In terms of bubble baths and vaginal well being, there are a number of issues to bear in mind to minimise the danger of irritation or an infection.

• Go for bubble tub merchandise particularly formulated for delicate pores and skin or intimate hygiene. Search for merchandise which might be fragrance-free and haven’t any sulfates.
• Take bubble baths much less ceaselessly or for temporary durations. Restrict the length of bubble baths to 10 to fifteen minutes, particularly you probably have delicate pores and skin or are liable to vaginal infections, says the professional.
• After bathing, rinse the genital space completely with clear water to take away any residual bubble tub product. Pay shut consideration to make sure all cleaning soap residue is washed away.
• After bathing, pat the genital space dry with a clear and delicate towel to keep away from irritating the fragile pores and skin of the vaginal space.
• Don’t use bubble tub merchandise internally. They shouldn’t be launched into the vaginal canal. Bubble tub options are meant for exterior use solely and shouldn’t be used to cleanse the within of the vagina, as this may disrupt the pure stability of micro organism and enhance the danger of infections.

Should you expertise any signs of vaginal irritation, discomfort, irregular discharge or odour after utilizing bubble tub merchandise, cease taking bubble baths and verify along with your physician.