Yes! You just read that correctly and NO, that was not a typo.

How are you taking care of your…let’s call it what it is…

Your POWERFUL, BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING VAGINA?

If you’re like me a few months ago, I bet you just wash it down with soap and water,  because let’s face it, as mamas we’re lucky we get to shower, right? And if you’re like over 60% of American women you douche it every now and then, big no no!

I have a preposition to you. Lets take 30 seconds every time we shower to appreciate our vaginas for everything that they are and everything that they do for us. In this 30 seconds I want you to examine yourself, really look at yourself down there. You are beautiful just the way you are. Say thank you, say I love you and stop using soap. Yes I said it, STOP USING SOAP and DOUCHE!

Here’s why. Our vaginas are self cleaning, just like ovens, but unlike ovens it gets tons of good bacteria like lactobacilli, that works tirelessly to keep everything spotless. Here’s what Dr. Jennifer Gunter, Bay Area OB-GYN, has to say about it:

“They make the vagina acidic so that it makes it difficult for pathogens to grow,” explains Gunter. “And they produce different substances that can be toxic to different bacteria and viruses.”

Got it?

OK, so now lets talk abut the part that we can clean occasionally, specially after sex and that sweaty workout. OUR VULVAS, or the outside of our vaginas. Opt for something mild, that doesn’t have many ingredients like glycerin or castile soap.

Or you can make your own formula!

A few months ago I stumbled on this post and decided to give it a try. I am never using soap again!!!! Jillee’s recipe is super easy and actually helpful to protect against infections and odor formation. The problem is that most shower gels and any scented body washes also contain harmful chemicals that can enter your bloodstream and leave sensitive skin prone to infection and irritation. Her recipe uses alcohol-free witch hazel and rose water. I adapted to my own likes and I encourage you to do the same, but be careful when using essential oils, make sure they are 100% pure and OK for your genitals. (to know which essential oils I use and recommend click here)

Witch hazel contains compounds called tannin that when applied to the skin, help reduce swelling, repair broken skin, and fight bacteria. Applying witch hazel to the skin may help to temporarily relieve itching, discomfort, irritation, and burning.

Rose water is a great cleanser and aids in removing oil and dirt accumulated in clogged pores which can cause acne and pimples. It can be used on both oily or dry skin, and can help maintain your skin’s pH balance. You can use it every day for an all-over glow.

Now onto the recipe:

1 cup of witch hazel (alcohol free)

1 cup of organic rose water

6 tsp of organic extra virgin coconut oil

2 tsp of unscented castile soap (I use Dr. Bronners)

4 drops of tea tree essencial oil

5 drops of lavender essential oil

1 12oz pump (or foam) bottle

MIX ALL INGREDIENTS IN THE BOTTLE, SHAKE IT, WASH AWAY!

Easy right? Now show me some love, let me know what you think in the comments bellow!

From my heart to yours,

– Patty