For a long time, openly discussing feminine wellness in the Philippines was largely unheard of. Thankfully, over the years, this taboo has slowly been shed thanks to the Internet and mainstream demand for better reproductive health resources. Just recently, in Pampanga, Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Central Luzon Information Officer Adreal Denver Monterona reiterated that both young men, women, and parents should be educated in reproductive health in an effort to curb rising underage pregnancy rates.
Of course, aside from contraceptives, holistic reproductive health can be achieved in the modern Filipina’s everyday life. Whether you are sexually active and hoping to conceive or the exact opposite, these are some important tips you can follow.
Clean your intimate area properly
The Philippines is one the countries most familiar with feminine washes. However, to maximize its benefits, it’s also important to use them properly. Because the vaginal area is highly sensitive, unscented and pH balanced washes (those with pH readings of 3.8 to 4.5) are preferable to prevent irritations, infections, and dryness. Try to clean your intimate area twice a day, avoiding any scrubbing movements and only washing from front to back. Washing or wiping from back to front is not ideal since this may spread anal bacteria to the delicate vaginal region. Last but not the least, make sure to dry off with a cotton towel before wearing breathable underwear. Cotton is the best fabric for underwear since it wicks away moisture and doesn’t compress the area. Remember, washing may need to be done more often when you’re on your period or post-coitus.
Engage in self-pleasure
Perhaps one of the most controversial but also most effective ways to care for feminine health is self-pleasure. Masturbation is natural and healthy, and doctors say that regular orgasms can help detoxify the body. A natural stimulant, masturbation can even regulate blood flow to relieve stress, ease cramps, and improve sleep quality. If you’re new to masturbation, a discreet and sanitary option would be to try a bullet vibrator. These are small and safe tools that stimulate the femine area using vibrations and pulsations. Bullet vibrators now come in many shapes and materials, but you can’t go wrong with a silicone-covered model for easy clean-up.
Cut out your vices
As of 2019, Statista reports that 8.6% of Filipinas were regular smokers while 14.8% are alcohol drinkers. Though drinking in moderation can be acceptable, smoking in and of itself is harmful. Frequently indulging in both can cause several health risks, including complications in women’s reproductive health. While excessive drinking can disrupt a woman’s critical menstrual patterns, smoking causes much more dire effects like miscarriages, infertility, and heightened risk for cervical cancer, according to VeryWellFamily. Even before you would like to start conception, it’s best to lessen—if not, cut out altogether—these vices. Depending on your preference, you could do this cold turkey or with the aid of nicotine patches and gum.
Meet with an OB-GYN regularly
As a rule of thumb, women over the age of 21 should regularly visit their OB-GYN for pap smears and other tests. Even if you’re not currently sexually active, seeing your doctor frequently makes it easier to diagnose underlying sexually transmitted diseases (STD) or other conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. During these check-ups, you can also ask your doctor for dietary adjustments that will specifically target your concerns. For instance, if you suffer from headaches, cravings, dizziness,and depression, your doctor may suggest an increase in calcium and magnesium since these are two minerals that directly alleviate these. An OB-GYN can also guide you in finding a contraceptive method that works best with your body and lifestyle.
The openness surrounding female reproductive health in the country still has a long way to go. But as an informed and empowered Filipina, you can already begin pushing for change by practicing these habits and sharing them with others.
