Why Vaginal Bleaching is Unsafe
Ever heard of the term, ‘vaginal bleaching’? It is a cosmetic procedure that is done to lighten the appearance of the vulva. The process has nothing to do with the actual vagina, which is inside your body. Vaginal or intimate bleaching may involve the use of topical creams, lasers, or chemical peels. It is important to note that vaginal bleaching can be dangerous, and it is not medically approved. Vaginal bleaching as a process has no regulations and may have harmful effects on the body. Just like our skin tones differ, the shape and colour of vulvas differ in appearance. Before you get set to jump into the procedure, we recommend understanding and learning the risks associated with it.
Let us understand how vaginal bleaching works, its potential risks and side effects.
How is vaginal bleaching done?
Vaginal bleaching can be done at home with treatments available in stores or one can choose to undergo a cosmetic procedure at a clinic.
Although the name of the procedure is vaginal bleaching, it doesn’t and should never be done with bleach. The ingredients used are meant to lighten the skin and are often seen in creams and serums. However, they don’t actually include any bleach.
Is vaginal bleaching safe?
Any procedure that alters the appearance of the female genitals for nonmedical reasons is not safe and can come with significant risk, states The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These treatments done for vaginal bleaching or whitening can end up harming the body. Some of the its side effects are:
- vaginal burns
- scarring
- pain that lasts long
- painful intercourse
Additionally, the labels of such treatments may not list all of the ingredients. There have been reports of dangerous ingredients such as arsenic and mercury, being added in skin bleaching products.
Is it normal to have darker vulvar skin?
The answer is a big yes! The skin all over our body changes over time. This includes the delicate and sensitive areas of the vulva and vagina. These changes in colour are normal and in no way is it unhealthy or unattractive. The reasons for this change in colour are plenty. Typically, it’s the result of natural and normal hormonal changes that occur in our bodies at different stages in our life – such as pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause.
If you get bikini waxing done frequently, that could be the culprit too. Waxing can cause the vulvar skin to callus (form hard and thick patches of skin), which leads to a darker shade. Other reasons include genetic skin types, aging, and weight gain.
However, if you notice the skin of your vulva go through a sudden and severe change, you must talk to a doctor. It could indicate larger medical issues such as eczema, vulvar cancer, vulvar lesions, or diabetes.
What are the potential side effects or risks
The side effects largely depend upon the type of treatment, you’ve undertaken. With certain over-the-counter products, which provide short-term results, you may experience vulva and vaginal burning, swelling, irritation, inflammation, and infections like bacterial or yeast infection.
With such vaginal infections, peculiar discharge is a common symptom. It is recommended to use good quality panty liners to manage this discharge.
Explore Always panty liners which are dermatologically tested, safe and perfect for daily hygiene. Try the Always Comfort Protect panty liners which have innovatively discreet design that is flexible and reliable, so you can go about your daily activities freely. Its unique odour neutralising technology makes it comfortable for all day usage, helping you remain confident and secure all day.
Procedures that claim to offer longer term results like lasering and bleaching creams could cause loss of sensation or too much sensation or pain. Sometimes, the scarring can happen over the clitoral hood, which can cause the clitoral hood to adhere to the clitoris. This makes it incredibly intense and painful to be aroused. Once this happens, there isn’t much the doctors can do to help you find relief.
Precautions to take if you want to get vaginal bleaching done
All said and done, if someone wants to get vaginal whitening, you may want to be cautious about certain things in order to minimise the risks. They are:
- Most importantly, talk to a certified healthcare professional or a doctor who specialises in the female reproductive system before you go ahead with the treatment.
- As convenient as it may be, avoid indulging in any DIY treatments.
- Avoid using any products that are not from a licensed drugstore. This includes any unregulated products that are available online.
- Once you know the ingredients in the product, do some research about it. Go ahead only when you are satisfied with the information you get. Also, avoid products that include hydroquinone, topical steroids, or mercury.
- If you experience any severe reaction or adverse effects to the treatment, you must get medical attentions immediately.
Takeaway
Resorting to vaginal bleaching to change the appearance of the vulva for cosmetic reasons can be dangerous. It could cause pain and result in adverse side effects. Many medical organisations, such as the ACOG, do not support such cosmetic procedures that alter female genitalia due to the risks involves and most importantly, a lack of evidence with regard to their safety and effectiveness.
However, those who still want to go ahead with vaginal bleaching, it is strongly recommended that they talk to a doctor first.
Disclaimer
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