These 13 Period Mistakes Might Make Your Time of the Month Even Worse

You clean too much down there

Periods don’t smell like a bouquet of roses so it’s normal to want to mask any odor with every powder, soap, or wipe that you can find. But using these fragrant products can make your vagina feel anything but pretty. “When it comes to vaginal cleansing, leave it alone,” says Clair Paik, MD, associate professor and director of gynecology at UC Davis in California. The best way to keep your vaginal flora healthy and happy is to cleanse the internal parts with water only. Dr. Paik recommends avoiding any fragrant soaps, wipes, and shower gels, especially douching. As for those external nooks and crannies, use an all-natural ingredient soap that doesn’t have the words “fragrance” or “parfum” on the label to help you feel fresh. Here’s how your vaginal discharge can be an indicator of your health.