For the vulva

Should I wash my vulva and clean between my labia?

  • Yes, clean your vulva daily to remove dirt or bacteria. 
  • Spread the labia apart and gently clean the folds using warm water and clean washcloth or your hands. 
  • You can use a mild unscented soap, but it’s not necessary. Avoid getting water or soap inside your vagina to prevent irritations. 

What is a urinary tract infection (UTI) and how do you prevent them?

  • When harmful bacteria from the anus (like poo) gets into the urethra it causes a urinary tract infection.
  •  To prevent this, always wipe from front to back (from the vulva to the anus).
  •  You can also prevent them by peeing after sexual activity, staying well hydrated, and minimizing douching/sprays in the genital area.
  • It can be tricky to avoid these infections because the urethral, vaginal, and anal openings are very close together. 

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

  • A strong need to pee that never goes away.
  • It burns to pee. 
  • Peeing a lot and only passing a small amount.
  • Pee that looks cloudy.
  • Pee that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored are signs of blood in the pee.
  • Strong-smelling pee. 
  • How do you test and treat for a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
  • A health care provider will do a urine test, if it is positive for a UTI, it will be treated with antibiotics.