WOUND CARE
FEMININE CARE
THROAT CARE
FEMININE CARE
9 Q&AsIdentify 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
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 circulation103-106
The use of contraceptives103-106
The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of other infections103-106
The use of vaginal deodorants103-106
The lack of personal hygiene103-10
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
Women who suffer from hypothyroidism should also avoid using the
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche.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
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche products can also be washed off even if they get into contact with your clothes. If you accidentally get some on natural fibers, it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, it can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.59,107
CAUTION: Immediately wipe up spills on plastic floors.
THROAT CARE
14 Q&AsThese viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touch an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs or sneezes) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing) 43.
A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is good to use a preparation that target different types and classes of germs88.
Viruses are tiny particles that rely on human or animal cells for their survival, so they cannot last very long outside the body27. They cause illnesses by invading healthy cells and multiplying.
Bacteria are single cell organisms usually found in and on our bodies27. Some bacteria are harmless – and can even be good for us – and some cause infections27.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle has scientific research on its germ killing activity against germs that can cause sore throats1-3. With a 30-second gargle, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle kill germs2. Individual response varies*.
For the same reasons, other viral infections like flu should not be treated with antibiotics either6.
If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections*.
* For further information, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle kills germs that cause sore throats1,2.Research has also shown that the povidone-iodine (PVPI) in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle has a 30 seconds killing effect against germs through 30 sec gargling34. Individual response varies.
Since most sore throats are caused by germs5, there are steps that you can take to prevent getting an infection:
- Avoid sharing utensils with people who are sick.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap.
- Practice proper hand and throat hygiene by using an antiseptic hand wash and gargle, such as POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle to kill germs and prevent passing on germs within the family or community2.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands as germs can enter your body this way and make you sick.
- Stay away from people who are ill, as germs can spread.88
No, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle does not stain the teeth. The natural brown colour is due to Povidone-Iodine, the active ingredient of POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle. The product retains the germ killing effect of iodine but unlike iodine, it is generally non-staining3.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) preparations do not stain the skin, fingernails, hair, or natural fibre either.3 If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Small amount may be swallowed during gargling. If accidentally swallowed in large amounts, consult your local doctor or pharmacist immediately.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle contains povidone-iodine that kills the germs that cause sore throats1-3, in a 30-second gargle. However, it is impossible to say how quickly you will feel better. Individual response condition varies*.
Some cosmetic mouthwashes are meant for fresh breath while POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle is a medicated formulation for treatment against throat and oral infection10.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not use unless advised by healthcare professional.
Germs that cause sore throats can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching something that has the germs on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).43,88
When a loved one suffers from sore throat, flu or a cold, practicing proper throat and oral hygiene like gargling with POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) helps. This lessens the chances of other family members getting it too by killing the germs before they have a chance to act.
The active ingredient in BETADINE®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a golden brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin3.
If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
WOUND CARE
8 Q&AsAntiseptics are used as a treatment to cleanse cuts, scratches, burns, grazes or other minor injuries where the skin is broken, or as a preventive measure before piercing the skin (e.g. an injection). For this very reason, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) has a wide range of antiseptic formats for your different needs.
If you accidentally get Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) on natural fibers it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) Wound Care is an antiseptic, not an antibiotic. Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) Wound Care range contains povidone-iodine that acts on germs that may cause wound infection14. These germs get killed before it has an opportunity to infect the wound. When you use it, you will know it always helps.
Additionally, the use of tap water to cleanse the wound would not be recommended in a country where a constant supply of potable drinking water is not available.32
Why an Antiseptic Skin Cleanser is a Must-Have When Bracing the Flood
In a flood-prone country like the Philippines, the rainy season can turn streets into streams and rivers in the blink of an eye. Nowadays, floods have become so frequent that most people opt to rush home at the slightest sign of a downpour to prevent waterlogged shoes and wet belongings.
And it isn't just unpleasant dampness people have to worry about—a common problem during flood season is the spread of infection-causing germs and other disease carriers like mosquitoes, rats, and cockroaches.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Floods significantly increase the risk of contracting communicable diseases.
Immediate washing and use of protective gear are essential for protection.
The Hazards of Floodwater
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), floods usually increase the risk of communicable diseases. A communicable disease is a type of illness that spreads either from person to person or person to animal, and during a flood, you can either get sick from contaminated floodwater or be bitten by insects that carry a host of unsavory illnesses.
DISEASES YOU CAN GET DURING A FLOOD
WATER-BORNE: Typhoid Fever, Cholera, Leptospirosis
VECTOR-BORNE (from living organisms): Malaria, Dengue, Yellow Fever
Workers who handle corpses, soil, or feces also face the additional hazard of contracting illnesses while doing their jobs, as flooding makes it easier to expose themselves to the toxic waste they handle. Some examples include:
FOR WORKERS HANDLING CORPSES: Tuberculosis, HIV, Diarrhea
FOR WORKERS HANDLING SOIL OR FECES: Tetanus
How to Protect Yourself During a Flood
So what do you do when wading through the flood seems inevitable?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that if you come into contact with floodwater, there are a few things you can do to help prevent yourself from getting sick:
If you have any open wounds or injuries, either avoid flooded places or ensure they're covered in waterproof bandages and properly cleaned immediately after.
Wear appropriate attire, such as rubber boots, gloves, or goggles.
Immediately wash the areas of your body that have come in contact with floodwater in a safe, dry place.
Wash your hands and feet after going through a flood.
Immediately clean any clothes that have been exposed to the flood in hot water and detergent before using them again.
How Do You Protect Yourself from Floodwater Diseases?
When passing through floodwater becomes an unfortunate regular occurrence for you, normal soap might seem too mild a skin disinfectant for all the germs you're exposed to. And you're not wrong for thinking that.
In a study by Eggers et al., they tested how effective two common antiseptics (povidone iodine and chlorhexidine gluconate) were versus plain soap in eliminating a common bacterium (E. coli) and virus (the murine norovirus).3
They found that both antiseptics outperformed plain soap in eliminating E. coli, but when it came to the norovirus, povidone iodine outperformed the other two agents in reducing it, while chlorhexidine gluconate did worse than plain soap.
An Easy Way to Help Keep You Safe
Our POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Skin Cleanser offers Triple Action Protection that fights against 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in as fast as 30 seconds, as proven in lab tests, making it an essential tool during those rainy days.
Here's the best way to use it:
Cleanse First: After removing contaminated clothing, thoroughly wash affected areas of body parts using POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Skin Cleanser.
Lather and wait: Let it lather on wet skin and allow it to stay on the affected area for up to one minute before rinsing. This contact time allows the povidone iodine antiseptic to work its magic.
Rinse Off and Dry Completely: After rinsing off the cleanser thoroughly, ensure your skin is completely dry before getting dressed, as moisture encourages bacterial growth.
So if you want to level up your hygiene, help get that clean feel you deserve with this povidone-iodine antiseptic cleanser instead of just washing with regular soap4 — your future self will thank you for it.
(NOTE: PVP-I can/may not prevent all types of diseases you may have been exposed to during a flood. Consult a doctor for more specific advice regarding any additional management you may need after exposure that is best suited for your situation.)
Not recommended for continuous daily use throughout the year. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor. ASC I0006P011226B
References:
The Risks of Flooding: Protect yourself from floodwater diseases. Philippine Council for Health Research and Development website. Published October 26, 2015. Accessed October 30, 2025. https://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/news_and_updates/the-risks-of-flooding-protect-yourself-from-floodwater-diseases/.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Floodwater After a Disaster or Emergency. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Updated February 6, 2024. Accessed October 30, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/floods/safety/floodwater-after-a-disaster-or-emergency-safety.html.
Eggers M, Koburger-Janssen T, Ward LS, Newby C, Müller S. Bactericidal and Virucidal Activity of Povidone-Iodine and Chlorhexidine Gluconate Cleansers in an In Vivo Hand Hygiene Clinical Simulation Study. Infect Dis Ther. 2018;7(2):237-251. doi:10.1007/s40121-018-0205-1.
Eggers M, Eickmann M, Kowalski K, Zorn J, Reimer K. Povidone-iodine hand wash and hand rub products demonstrated excellent in vitro virucidal efficacy against Ebola virus and modified vaccinia virus Ankara, the new European test virus for enveloped viruses. BMC Infect Dis. 2015;15:375. doi:10.1186/s12879-015-1111-9)
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