Regular soap, especially the scented soap and gels, can affect the healthy balance of bacteria and pH levels in your intimate area. ^60,61,62

"Flora” is the term used to describe the microorganisms that live on or in our bodies. ^60-62 Some flora actually has a positive effect on our health, while others can multiply to become harmful.^60-62 In the vagina, the normal flora actually helps prevent infections. The normal flora that live in our vaginal area is called lactobacilli. It protects women against infections in the feminine intimate area and keeps the normal vaginal flora intact.^60-62 Sometimes, the vaginal flora becomes unbalanced, making it more likely for you to feel discomfort in your intimate area."

BETADINE^® Daily Feminine Wash products are specially formulated to maintain vaginal hygiene and help keep the normal vaginal flora intact. To manage vaginal cleanliness and prevent issues, it’s important to maintain the normal vaginal flora.^93-94 BETADINE^® Daily Feminine Wash products help soothe, care and protect your intimate area, and keep the natural balance. The Tri-Care+TM formula and prebiotics in the BETADINE^® Daily Feminine Wash products provide daily protection from unwanted symptoms associated with pH imbalance in the vagina — an imbalance pH that could lead to discomfort.^21,28

Povidone-Iodine as the active ingredient is used against a wide spectrum of microorganisms.^2,96 The POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche do not target just one type of microorganism but also cleanse the bad germs, allowing the normal vaginal flora (good bacteria) to return.^59,107

Do:
Identify the cause – suspect infection by looking out for vaginal symptoms such as discharge with abnormal colour or amount.
Check for foreign objects like tampons or condoms after intimate sessions.
Wear cotton undergarments to encourage airflow and allow your vaginal area to breathe.^103-106
 
Don’t:
Use fragrant body washes and soaps as it can disrupt the pH balance of your vagina.^103-106

A vaginal infection (your doctor may call it bacteria vaginitis, yeast vaginitis, trichomoniasis vaginitis) is an infection that results in minor inflammation and other symptoms in and around your vagina.^103-106 It may cause redness, swelling, irritation or even pain, abnormal vaginal discharge and odour. In some cases, when left untreated, this can result in serious complications.^103-106

Vaginal infections are very common – it’s estimated that 75% of women have had at least one at some point in their lives.102 They occur when infectious bacteria, viruses or fungi grow in or around the vagina.

Bacterial infections are the most common cause, accounting for up to 50% of the cases. ¹⁰² They happen when there are changes in the types and amounts of bacteria normally found in the vagina.

Fungal infections like candida albicans are probably the next most common cause. Fungal infections are often called vaginal yeast infections.


Other possible causes of vaginal irritation include:

Tight nylon underwear that doesn’t provide good ventilation, resulting in perspiration and lack of air circulation^103-106
The use of contraceptives^103-106
The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of other infections103-106
The use of vaginal deodorants^103-106
The lack of personal hygiene^103-10

Pregnant and lactating mothers are encouraged to avoid using the POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche due to the potential risks to the fetus/baby. There is a possible chance that the fetus/baby may be at risk of reversible hypothyroidism. Even though hypothyroidism is reversible, it might still lead to future metabolism conditions.^59,107

Povidone-iodine, which is the active ingredient in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche, is naturally golden brown in colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair.^59,107