Beware of genital warts stalking women, this is how to keep the vagina clean

KOMPAS.com – Genital warts or genital warts caused by infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV), is one of the sexually transmitted diseases that women must be aware of.

Because the prevalence genital warts worldwide from 2001 to 2012 in women was 120.5 cases per 100,000 per year. With a peak age in women who experience genital warts are 24 years old.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, it is estimated that 62.5 percent of women aged 25 to 45 years have had genital warts.

This was conveyed by the Dermato-venereology Specialist at Pramudia Clinic, Dr Amelia Soebyanto, Sp.DV, in webinar which was held on Wednesday (15/6/2022).

Read also: Know what genital warts are and who are at risk for getting them

He explained, how to prevent genital warts is by not changing sexual partners, and having safe sex, namely using protection or condoms.

Furthermore, implementing a healthy lifestyle by avoiding the consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking.

According to Dr. Amelia the feminine area, or Miss V is a very important organ to be kept clean. Especially in those who are sexually active, because of the high risk of contracting genital warts.

As for how to maintain cleanliness vagina is to always wash it with clean running water.

“If possible warm (water) is better, wipe it from front to back. Not from back to front, we just put dirt from the back of the anus into our vagina. So the way to clean it must be from front to back,” he said.

In addition to HPV infection, the vagina is also susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections that can cause various diseases. Some people may clean it with feminine soap, to prevent the infection.

However, Amelia does not recommend using soap too often to clean the female area. Because, the vagina actually has a level of acidity and a distinctive odor.

“Indeed, our vaginas have a relatively slight odor, but that smell means that our vaginas are acidic enough, thus reducing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections,” said Amelia.

“Fungal and bacterial infections also don’t want to stick there. So don’t get rid of it with vaginal cleansers too often, or don’t put it in the vagina that has been sprayed on,” he continued.

Read also: Genital warts often go unnoticed, what are the symptoms?

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