FAQs Archive - Lactacyd.eu

The term douche refers to a device used to introduce a stream of liquid into the vagina for hygienic purposes. The liquid is typically either water or a combination of water and antiseptic chemicals.
Because the vagina cleanses itself, there is no need to insert douches or similar products into the vagina for cleansing. Many doctors and health professionals feel very strongly opposed to douching. They claim that the process is dangerous because it interferes with the natural cleansing of the vagina and the balance of its bacterial cultures. The interference can often lead to irritation, mostly in the form of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV). You can feel clean and fresh by using a mild cleanser, such as one of Lactacyd products with a special formulation that protects you against odors and vaginal discomfort, to wash the external (vulvar) area. You can also use Lactacyd Wipes while at work, outdoors, during and after exercise, and so on.

If you have feminine discomfort, a mild cleanser such as one of the Lactacyd product range may help you feel more comfortable than will cleansing with a harsher cleanser or soap. A harsher cleanser or soap may dry the skin of the vulvar area and actually cause discomfort. Lactacyd products are very mild and specifically developed for the sensitive skin of your intimate zone.

Most women experience vaginal itching, soreness, a burning sensation during urination or sex, and a thick, white, clumpy, odorless discharge.

The vagina contains bacteria that regulate the amount of yeast. If the amount of these bacteria is affected and an imbalance occurs, an excess of these yeast cells will grow.
Common causes of bacterial imbalance include taking antibiotics, a change in estrogen levels due to pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy, diseases such as diabetes and HIV, or if you are taking birth control, menstruating, or allow sperm to enter the vagina during sex. Women who are pregnant or have experienced menopause are also more likely to get yeast infections.

Yeast is a fungus, naturally present in the vagina. Normally, the amount of yeast is small. A yeast infection is when an abnormal amount of yeast cell builds up in the vagina. Although the infection is common and easy to treat, it can be very uncomfortable.

BV is often treated with antibiotic tablets, gels, or creams. However, in many women BV is a recurrent condition despite treatment.

The cause of BV is still something of a mystery but it is not a sexually transmitted infection and is not caused by poor personal hygiene. BV may be made worse by some things, such as bubble baths, regular shower gels, or douching. It is thought these may alter the acid levels in the vagina and upset the balance between the friendly and harmful bacteria, so avoiding these might help.

BV typically causes a watery, grey-white vaginal discharge that has an unpleasant (fishy) smell. Many women with BV mistakenly think they have a yeast infection and use treatments for yeast infection, which will not help with BV.
Yeast infections are fungal infections that also cause a white vaginal discharge that is not malodorous; yeast infections also usually cause itching. Ask your pharmacist for advice on which treatments are most suitable for you. If you have a yellow, green, or brownish discharge, vaginal bleeding, or pain, you should speak to your doctor or visit a gynecologist. If you are pregnant, speak to your doctor or gynecologist.

The vagina normally contains many different types of bacteria. Some of these bacteria are ‘friendly’ but others are potentially harmful – there is a delicate balance between the two types. The healthy vagina is slightly acidic (pH 3.8–4.5) and these acid levels keep the harmful bacteria under control.
Bacterial vaginosis (also known as BV) is a condition that arises when there is an imbalance between these types of bacteria and an overgrowth of the harmful bacteria associated with an increase in pH as the vagina becomes less acidic. BV is the most common cause of vaginal discharge and affects up to 1 in 3 women, including up to 20% of pregnant women³.

³ https://www.gezondheid.be/index.cfm?fuseaction=art&art_id=1483

Feminine odor is entirely normal and many women experience it. However, every woman has some degree of vaginal discharge, which may have a distinct odor. To feel fresher, it’s important to have a good intimate hygiene routine. Lactacyd products have a balanced pH and contain lactic acid, which respects the natural pH balance of your intimate zone. Lactacyd Fresh contains active anti-odor ingredients and provides you with long-lasting freshness.