When it comes to life's greatest mysteries, the vagina seems to fall somewhere between the Bermuda Triangle and how the pyramids got built. All too often, women and men alike tend to view this vital organ as nothing more than a big question mark.
But here's the good news: While the vagina is certainly many things (fascinating, amazing, mind-blowing), one thing it doesn't have to be is mysterious.
We believe — particularly when we're talking about our bodies — that knowledge is power. Far too many women remain in the dark about the facets and functions of their vaginas, but luckily all it takes is some research, honesty, and a little myth-busting to get everyone up to speed.
That's why we teamed up with AZO to bring you a roundup of surprising things that you might not already know — but definitely should — about your vagina.
Here are 5 essential, lesser-known facts about vaginas.
1. It literally cleans itself
Don't be duped by that aisle of perfume-y products for "feminine hygiene" you see in stores — one of the most amazing things about the vagina is that it's totally self-cleaning. In fact, products like douches that promise a squeaky clean vagina can actually do more harm than good.
So sit back, relax, and let your lady parts do their thing.
Now, if only everything else in our lives were also self-cleaning...
2. It's made to adapt
Let's get one thing straight: Your vagina is not a one-size-fits-all situation. It's a totally adaptable, versatile organ that's built to react based on different situations.
Your cervix opens during childbirth and your vagina can stretch or constrict depending on a number of factors, like arousal and penis size.
3. Discharge = A-OK
Find some discharge on your underwear at the end of the day? Don't freak out — this is indicative of totally normal vaginal function.
Discharge can be caused by everything from exercising to ovulating, and is generally only a sign of a problem if it's yellow or green, clumpy, or accompanied by pain or discomfort.
4. It's slightly acidic
If you only equate acidity with heartburn and burnt coffee, think again. Your vagina contains a nuanced balance of bacteria (the good kind) and yeast, and when everything's working correctly, it's a perfect combo that results in a healthy pH and a happy vagina.
But tons of factors can affect your vaginal pH — from sex to menstruation to stress and anxiety — and can throw off your feminine balance.
Keep everything in check by seeing your doctor regularly, eating a healthy diet, and introducing a probiotic that promotes a healthy vaginal microbiome into your daily routine.
5. It's affected by your diet
You already know that diet can make all the difference when it comes to your skin and your gut, but did you know that it also can affect you...down there?
Eating soy has been found to promote natural lubrication, garlic is antimicrobial and may help combat yeast infections, and acids found in cranberries can help eliminate 'bad' bacteria from your urinary tract. Who knew?
BRB, running to the grocery store...
This post is sponsored by AZO.
