When you think of the times that you feel the most relaxed and happy , the blissed - out buzz you get after an orgasm ranks right up there with a deep tissue massage . But what you choose to do while buzzed impacts your vagina .
“ When the vaginal tissues have been lubricated, swollen, and rubbed against during intercourse, it changes how that tissue reacts to the environment .
Primarily , you run a much greater risk of infection, ” says Kansas - based gynaecologist , Dr . Leslie Page
Here , we break down the stuff you should never , ever do after sex if you want to keep your vagina happy .
Don ’t forget to pee
During sex , bacteria can get pushed into your bladder . “ This can result in post- intercourse bladder infections , ” says an obstetrics gynaecologist , Dr . Robert Wool, M . D.
“ You can have some snuggle time, just empty your bladder within one hour of having sex . ”
Then , wipe from front to back to avoid spreading fecal matter from your anus to the vagina.
“ Due to swelling and micro - abrasions that can occur during sexual intercourse, your vulva and vaginal skin are particularly tender and prone to infection, ” says Page .
Don ’t use soap to wash your vagina
Some women might feel the urge to wash the vagina with soap after sex , but that ’ s really unnecessary . Not only might you have an allergic reaction if your post- sex skin reacts differently to the harsh chemicals in cleansers , but “ using soap can lead to vaginal irritation and dryness , ” Wool says .
“ The vagina is a self - cleaning organ , and needs to be treated very, very gently — if you wouldn ’ t put it in your mouth , you shouldn ’ t put it in or around your vagina, ” Page says . If you want to take a post - sex shower , use plain water to rinse off.
Don ’t sleep in your nylon underwear
Cotton lingerie is okay because it’ s breathable , but nylon , rayon , or polyester undies are a no - no .
“ After sex , your skin tends to be warm and damp , thanks to perspiration , vaginal secretions , and semen , ” Page says .
“ As such , synthetic underwear traps the moisture and you run the risk of a yeast infection, ” Wool says . “The vagina likes to breathe . ” So , go nude or stick to cotton pants after sex .
Don ’t swim in a hot bath tub
Getting your bubbles on sounds like the perfect after - sex activity , but it’ s bad news.
“ When your vulva swells in response to sexual stimulation, it reveals the opening of the vagina , which means you have a greater chance of infection, ” Page says .
If you ’ re in a hot tub with your partner , that means you ’ re exposed to the bacteria on his skin and anus . Also , extensive water exposure reduces the efficiency of your skin ’ s antimicrobial barrier , she says .
Don ’t use flushable wet wipes
If you ’ re sensitive to chemicals like alcohol , glycerin , scents , and certain oils , using a flushable wet wipe after sex can cause irritation , since you ’ re more susceptible to skin issues after sex , says Page .
The signs include redness , swelling , itching , and tenderness .
If you ’ re set on cleaning up with something other than toilet paper , try doing your own wipe with warm water and vinegar, says Page .
Mix one teaspoon of vinegar with a quart of water , pour some on to a wash cloth and wipe your vulva over the toilet , and then pat dry , she says .
“ The vinegar is mildly cleansing and helps maintain the skin ’ s natural acidity , ” says Page .
The bottom line : You have only one vagina, treat it gently .