featured Through your experience in working with so many women from different walks of life, what are the top 3 most common concerns when it comes to “vulva issues”?
In my experience, every woman and every case is different. While people might come to me with similar sexual challenges, what we end up working on varies a lot from person to person – that’s because everyone’s sexual history, experiences and circumstances are different.That said, the most common vulva concerns that people come to me with are usually about: Painful sex Wanting...
Do you think women are doing enough to care for themselves, specifically caring for their vulva?
I’d prefer not to generalise here because I’ve met and known many women who do amazingly with taking care of themselves and caring for their vulvas. That said, I do think there is a general lack of conversation and awareness in society about what vulva care is and what it could look like. So in that sense, it would be challenging for...
What do you think about Vulva Care? Do you think it is important?
For me, vulva care is a holistic matter. It’s not just about physical care, but the emotional connection and relationship we have with our vulvas. And it’s important, as part of vulva care, to have an understanding about them – much like how it’s important to have an understanding about the rest of our body and mind to be able to take...
What do you think is the best way to open up the topic of vulva conversations? Do you think it’s best done from woman to woman?
I don’t think there is a “best” way to open up. For a lot of people, starting this conversation would most likely feel awkward and uncomfortable – which is completely normal when it’s something we’re not used to talking about! Here are a few suggestions that you can try to bring this topic up: Share! If you come across an article, video,...
With an increasing openness in today's society about self-care, do you think that the conversation surrounding the vulva and vulva care is adequately discussed?
I think that the conversation on sexual wellness in general, let alone vulva care, is not adequately discussed in today’s society – probably because talking about anything sexual still feels taboo. We just haven’t had a lot of practice talking about sex, intimacy, our bodies and the feelings related to this area. Most people still refer to the vagina as “down there”,...
The vagina has been known to be self-cleaning and also has a very specific PH-range that is required to prevent infections and other issues. Is it true that the Vulva is self-cleaning with a specific pH range too?
The vulva requires care to stay healthy. Keeping the vulva clean and dry is generally enough. However, do not douche, powder or use feminine sprays. Rinse the vulva, if necessary, with a perineal irrigation bottle, and dry the area by gentle patting rather than hair dryers. If there is mild vulva discomfort, soaking in warm water and using an emollient may be...
Can hormonal changes / skin issues on vulva be treated by topical application of intimate care products?
Some skin conditions can be treated using over-the-counter products. However, others may require prescription-only medications. It would be prudent to see a family doctor for an assessment before self-prescribing treatment.Dr. Tan Toh Lick1 May 2019
