After a protracted day, stress-free in a tub stuffed with bubbles could seem to be probably the most flattering type of self-care. It could actually present a spa-like expertise within the consolation of your personal residence – if in case you have a tub, that’s. Though it might assist to alleviate muscle ache and ache, a bubble bathtub might not be so good in your vagina. Soaking in bubble baths with perfume and harsh chemical compounds can improve the danger of vaginal irritation or infections, particularly for many 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, often a liquid cleaning soap or bathtub gel, is added to the water to create bubbles. These bubbles can improve the washing expertise by offering a way of rest. Bubble bathtub merchandise typically comprise surfactants, that are substances that cut back the floor pressure of water, permitting bubbles to type simply, says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Deepa Dewan. They often comprise 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 may be satisfying, however could also be dangerous to the vaginal space attributable to a number of causes:

1. Disruption of pH steadiness

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

2. Elevated danger of urinary tract infections

In response to a 2013 examine printed within the Sultan Qaboos College Medical Journal, pores and skin allergens launched to the genital space, equivalent to bubble bathtub liquids, might alter vaginal flora and finally lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bubble bathtub substances could irritate the urethra, making it extra prone to an infection.

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3. Vaginal dryness

Harsh surfactants and detergents in bubble bathtub merchandise can strip the pores and skin of its pure oils, resulting in vaginal dryness and irritation down there. This may 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 steadiness 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 bathtub?

In relation to 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 bathtub merchandise particularly formulated for delicate pores and skin or intimate hygiene. Search for merchandise which are fragrance-free and don’t have any sulfates.
• Take bubble baths much less regularly or for transient durations. Restrict the period of bubble baths to 10 to fifteen minutes, particularly if in case you have delicate pores and skin or are liable to vaginal infections, says the skilled.
• After bathing, rinse the genital space completely with clear water to take away any residual bubble bathtub 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 mushy towel to keep away from irritating the fragile pores and skin of the vaginal space.
• Don’t use bubble bathtub merchandise internally. They shouldn’t be launched into the vaginal canal. Bubble bathtub options are meant for exterior use solely and shouldn’t be used to cleanse the within of the vagina, as this will disrupt the pure steadiness of micro organism and improve the danger of infections.

In case you expertise any signs of vaginal irritation, discomfort, irregular discharge or odour after utilizing bubble bathtub merchandise, cease taking bubble baths and test together with your physician.