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Feminine Wipes

A little extra help

Menstruation and ovulation can sometimes leave women feeling not so fresh. On top of that, pantyhose, nylon undergarments, and tight-fitting jeans all contribute to the warm, moist environment that bacteria prefer. It's usually not a real problem; ordinary good hygiene is all you need to maintain health. But if it bothers you, premoistened towelettes are a fine solution. Be sure to use them sparingly, infrequently, and only externally.

Don't Overdo It

  • Wipes come in handy to wipe away excess menstrual leakage or vaginal secretions, especially when you're traveling. They do the trick without muss and fuss, but frequent use is not recommended because they encourage an overly moist environment, possibly increasing risk of vaginal infections.

Antiseptics

Antiseptics inhibit microbial growth or kill microbes outright. However, their effectiveness in preventing vaginal odor has not been substantiated.

Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone is a topical steroid used to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is the only corticosteroid approved for use without a prescription. It is highly effective, but overuse can lead to tolerance and a lessened effect. Hydrocortisone is not intended for prolonged use, only for occasional relief from irritation.

Preservatives

There are numerous preservatives in feminine wipes, but they all work in one of two ways:
  • By preventing the growth of microorganisms.
  • By preventing the breakdown or degradation of other chemicals.
Preservatives are often (but not always) the culprit when you have an allergic reaction to a product.

Antiseptics
Ingredient
Description
Octoxynol-9?An antimicrobial agent derived from phenol with surfactant characteristics. It keeps the oil and water portions in a product together and can be used as a surfactant and detergent.
Hydrocortisone
Ingredient
Description
Hydrocortisone?An anti-inflammatory agent, it's used to lessen irritation.
Preservatives
Ingredient
Description
Sorbic acid?Used to inhibit the growth of fungi (mold and yeast), which is dependent on pH.
Chlorhexidine?A strong, basic antiseptic that exists as a powder. It has the potential to be very irritating.
Polyquaternium-32?Also a quaternary ammonium compound that has antimicrobial activity.
Benzoic acid?Effective against microbes, it may cause skin irritations.
Methylparaben?Widely used with good antimicrobial properties, it's capable of causing allergic reactions.
Propylparaben?Effective against bacteria and fungi, it can be used in all types of solutions. It's not as toxic as benzoic acid.

Appropriate Uses

Towelettes

Wipes away odors and cleans the external vaginal area.

Be Careful

  • Be sure to wipe from front to back -- not from back to front -- to avoid spreading bacteria.
  • If your skin is irritated, the ingredients in a feminine wipe may cause further irritation. Cleaning with gentle soap and water may be your best bet in this case.

Make Sure the Products Provide Relief

Feminine hygiene sprays and wipes contain contact irritants that may cause contact vulvitis, which is characterized by itching, burning, and irritation. Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredient in the product.

Websites, Organizations & Manufacturers
Sources & Further Reading

Books

1. Knodel, LC.Nonprescription Products: Formulations & Features '98-99. Americam Pharmaceutical Association. Washington DC 1998.
2. Rinzler, CA.The Women'sHealth Products Handbook. Hunter House Inc. 1997.
3. Winter, R.A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients. Random House, Ince. New York 1994.
4. Michalun, N and MV Michalun.Skin Care and Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary. Milday Pub. Co. Albany, NY 1994.
Find more books on health and wellness at barnesandnoble.com.
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