The trouble with bubble bath.  

Vaginitis is a common problem that can affect women and girls of all ages. It can be caused by yeast, bacteria, vaginal contraceptives and sadly the things we as women love most – bubble baths, soaps, feminine sprays, and perfumes.1

Bubble bath, bath salts and bath bombs can contain large amounts of chemicals and dyes to create colour, and a pleasant fragrance. Some products may even contain glitter, which can be difficult to wash away from the vagina, which can lead to further irritation and scratching within and around the vagina. Furthermore, the scratch marks and hair follicles in the affected area can become infected which can cause a secondary infection.2

Bath salts can lead to a change in the vagina’s pH levels, which can increase the likelihood of irritation and infection such as; bladder infections, yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.2

It is important to maintain a healthy and neutral vagina pH level. However, it is very common and natural for the pH level to become imbalanced. It is a protection mechanism of the body. It is recommended to wash the outside of the vulva only using mild, soapy water or no soap at all if you are prone to vagina irritations or infections.2

Don’t feel embarrassed to discuss symptoms that might suggest vaginitis. Discuss your symptoms with your health care provider or pharmacist as soon as possible, to avoid delaying treatment.

DISCLAIMER: This editorial has been commissioned and brought to you by iNova Pharmaceuticals. Content in this editorial is for general information only and is not intended to provide medical or other professional advice. For more information on your medical condition and treatment options, speak to your healthcare professional

 

Name and business address of the holder of the certificate of registration: iNova Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd. Co. Reg. No. 1952/001640/07, 15e Riley Road, Bedfordview. Tel. No. 011 087 0000.  www.inovapharma.co.za. For further information, speak to your healthcare professional. Further information is available on request from iNova Pharmaceuticals. IN2969/18

 

References:

  1. Vaginitis – self – care. [online] 1 October 2018. [Cited] 5 November 2018. Available from URL: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000566.htm
  2. LiveWell with UnityPoint Health. Bath Bombs, Salts & Bubbles: What They Do to Your Vagina. [online] [Cited] 5 November 2018. Available from URL: https://www.unitypoint.org/livewell/article.aspx?id=3215875c-d747-41bc-a12a-65f083078074