How to Choose a Douche

A douche is a water-based solution that is used to cleanse the vagina. Made with different scents and combinations of solutions, douches are bought over the counter. Although the benefits of douching are debatable, learn to buy a douche that meets your needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Decide what kind of douche you need. If you'd like to mask unpleasant odor, there are different scents of douches on the market to try. If you'd rather try a douche that is made of natural ingredients, make your own using baking soda or vinegar. Two tablespoons of either of these ingredients mixed with 2 quarts of water creates a cheap and natural douche.
2. Consult a doctor if you are prone to yeast infections. A doctor can give you a prescription for a special, medicinal douche to ease the discomfort of yeast infections.
3. Try different douches to ensure you find the douche that works for you. If irritation develops, consult your physician as an underlying medical problem might be present and stop douching, as this might cause more pain.

Tips & Warnings

• Limit how often you douche to avoid upsetting the delicate balance of acids in the vagina.
• When trying to become pregnant with a boy, some fertility specialists advise using a baking soda-based douche before intercourse, as the baking soda makes the vagina less acidic and hostile to the sperm.
• Using a douche doesn't prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. Douching can reduce fertility if done regularly.
• Douching can mask problems that require medical attention. If you suffer from abnormal discharge, burning or itching, seek medical attention and don't douche before your appointment.