Jingle All the Way to Vaginal Wellness: Your guide to intimate health this festive season
Let’s face it, the holidays can be hectic. Your intimate health might be the last thing on your mind after the presents are prepped, the turkey is basted and extended family are knocking on your front door. But maintaining intimate health and sexual wellbeing doesn’t stop during the holidays.
If you’re dealing with vaginal dryness, irritation or pain, you might notice your symptoms getting worse when you’re feeling stressed or bogged down by holiday prep. Below are our top tips for curbing vaginal dryness this festive season.
1. Re-gift without guilt
They meant well. But you and I both know those heavily scented bath bombs and chemical-filled bodywashes are not going to make your vagina happy. We recommend sticking to a natural, pH-matched feminine wash to use on your intimate parts. A happy vagina is a balanced vagina! More on vaginal pH and the microbiome here. Check out YES® CLEANSE for an ultra-gentle, certified organic feminine wash that is pH matched to your vagina.
2. Dial down the alcohol
Whilst the mulled wine might be flowing at your favourite Christmas events, unfortunately, your vagina doesn’t lubricate as well when you’re drunk. Too much alcohol can leave you dehydrated, and this goes for your vagina too. It can also lead to decreased sexual stimulation and increased pain during sex [3]. Staying well-hydrated and drinking alcohol in moderation can help curb the effects of vaginal dryness.
3. Stressed? Take some time out
The holidays can be a magical time. But for some of us, business of the season as well as the extra financial pressure or complicated family dynamics, can make it hard to fully relax.
When you're stressed, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt hormonal balance. Testosterone (essential for your libido) also has the potential to drop. This hormonal imbalance can lead to changes in vaginal moisture and lubrication, potentially resulting in vaginal dryness [4]. Stress can also mess with vaginal pH making us more vulnerable to infections [4]. Try taking some moments to yourself each day to practice stress management techniques. Mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise are great ways to support your overall wellbeing and bring some moments of calm to your day.
4. Go easy on the Christmas pud (and other sweet treats)
Diet plays an important role in overall health, and this rings true for your vaginal health as well. High blood sugar levels can sometimes lead to vaginal discomfort [1]. Consuming lots of extra sugary Christmas treats might disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the body. So, try to enjoy in moderation, especially if you’re feeling a little dryer than usual.
5. Spend some extra time ‘warming up’
If vaginal dryness during sex is getting you down, make the most the cozy Christmas nights and take some extra time focusing on foreplay and relaxation before sex. Vaginal moisture is tied to arousal. Experimenting with a clitoral stimulant, toys, mutual masturbation and massage are great ways to ‘get in the mood’ especially if you struggle with low libido, and don’t skip the lube! Check out YES® O YES our organic clitoral stimulant oil here. YES® WB water-based and YES® OB plant oil-based lubricants are excellent choices if you’re looking for organic options that respect and nurture your intimate health.
6. Don’t skip your intimate health routine
Keeping your vagina happy and well-lubricated might seem like a lot of work, but it's worth it. Simple steps like using a daily vaginal moisturiser and natural lubricant during sex can make a world of difference. If you've already got a routine that works for you, don't stray from it during the holidays. YES® offers discreet applicators for our vaginal moisturiser and lubricants, so you can easily slip them into your handbag for on-the-go comfort.
Remember, your intimate health matters, even when the holiday chaos is in full swing. So, stay warm, stay hydrated, and keep your intimate well-being a priority this Christmas season!
References:
[1] Middlesex MD
[2] Very Well Health
