Maintaining intimate hygiene is key to comfort, confidence, and sexual health. Whether you’re getting ready for a steamy night or wrapping up a sensual session, knowing how to clean the vagina before and after sex the right way matters. This TLC-approved step-by-step guide is designed for women who want to feel fresh, safe, and empowered—without compromising their natural balance.

Let’s break it down into simple, gentle practices you can follow before and after intimacy.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean the Vagina Before Sex

1. Wash Your Hands
   • Always start by washing your hands with warm water and a mild cleanser like TLC’s intimate cleanser to avoid introducing bacteria.
2. Use Warm Water
   • Gently rinse the external genital area (vulva) with warm water.
   • If needed, use a pH-balanced, unscented cleanser like TLC’s gentle formula—specially designed for sensitive areas.
   • Do not insert water or soap into the vagina; it’s self-cleaning and doesn’t need internal washing.
3. Avoid Harsh Soaps
   • Stick to unscented, gentle, and pH-balanced cleansers only—like TLC’s non-irritating formula. Avoid body washes or scented soaps.
   • Focus cleaning only on external areas such as the labia and around the clitoris.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
   • Ensure that no soap or cleanser residue remains—residue can lead to itching or irritation.
5. Dry Gently
   • Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel. Don’t rub.
6. Use Unscented Wipes (Optional)
   • Alcohol-free, unscented wipes like TLC’s intimate wipes are great for quick touch-ups. Do not insert wipes into the vagina.
7. Skip the Douching
   • Douching before sex can disturb the natural pH and increase the risk of infections.

Additional Daily Vaginal Hygiene Tips

1. Stay Hydrated
   • Drinking water helps support healthy vaginal tissues and natural cleansing.
2. Wear Clean, Breathable Underwear
   • Opt for cotton underwear to improve airflow and reduce moisture.
3. Urinating Before Sex
   • Helps reduce pressure on the bladder and lowers UTI risk.
4. Manage Period Hygiene
   • If you’re on your period, change tampons, pads, or cups before sex.
5. Avoid Scented Products
   • Stay away from scented sprays, powders, or perfumes near the vaginal area—they can disrupt your natural flora.

How to Clean the Vagina After Sex

1. Urinate After Sex
   • This helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sex, reducing UTI risk.
2. Rinse with Warm Water
   • Gently wash the external area with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser like TLC’s.
   • Focus only on the vulva; there’s no need to wash inside the vagina.
3. Dry the Area Properly
   • Use a clean towel and pat (don’t rub) to dry thoroughly and prevent moisture buildup.

What About Douching After Sex?

Douching after sex is not recommended. While it may seem like a way to stay fresh, it actually disrupts the vagina’s natural balance and may cause:

• Increased risk of infection
• Altered pH levels
• Elimination of healthy bacteria

Your vagina is designed to clean itself—let it do its job, and focus on gentle, external cleansing instead.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Every vagina is unique. If you notice unusual discharge, odor, itching, or discomfort—especially after sex—consult a trusted healthcare professional.

For daily care, stick with dermatologist-approved and OB/GYN-recommended products that protect, not disrupt. You’ll find them in our TLC intimate care line.