Feminine hygiene practices among female patients and nurses in Lebanon

Abstract

BackgroundInappropriate feminine hygiene practices are related to vulvovaginitis. We investigated the prevalence of personal hygiene habits among Lebanese women as well as their awareness of adequate practices.MethodsConsists of a cross-sectional observational study. Female patients and nurses at Hotel-Dieu de France University Hospital in Beirut- Lebanon filled a questionnaire about their intimate hygiene habits and knowledge of proper practices.ResultsThe study included 249 women. 21.3 % of the 136 nurses and 38.9 % of the 113 patients reported a history of vulvovaginitis. The majority of women took an intimate bath at least twice daily. 14 % of nurses and 17 % of patients douched.20. Seven percent of the nurses and 43.4 % of the patients used wet wipes. 1.5 % of nurses and 4.4 % of patients used feminine deodorant sprays. There was a significant lack of awareness mainly among patients about suitable hygiene practices as well for their adverse effects.ConclusionEducation provided by nurses, and other healthcare providers is essential to promote reproductive health among Lebanese women.

Examining the Determinants of Intimate Hygiene for Young Women With an Emphasis on Behavior Related to Risk of Vulvovaginal Infections

“…It has been demonstrated that use of water and toilet paper for genital hygiene lower the incidence of genital infections among female students (p < 0.05) (Sevil et al, 2013). A Study by Attieh et al (2016) observed the personal care habits and awareness of Lebanese women. Pure water was used for rinsing the vagina by 33% (n = 249).…”

“…Underwear is a determinant that can foster the occurrence of inflammation in the genital area (Sevil et al, 2013;Brusch, 2015). The type and cleanliness of the underwear, as well as the frequency of changing, are important factors relating to the risk of urinary and genital tract infections (Reid, Bruce, 2003;Attieh et al, 2016). Sevil et al (2013) cited Ozkan, Demir (2002) and Kisa (2007), who found that 53.4% of women changed their underwear every two-three days.…”

“…Contrary to previous findings, the study by Sevil et al (2013) revealed no correlation between the frequency of changing underwear and genital infections (p < 0.05), but a significantly higher frequency of vaginal infections was demonstrated in female students according to the material of which underwear is made satin (p = 0.004) and cotton (p = 0.018) (p < 0.05). The study by Attieh et al (2016) showed that respondents were aware of the advisability of wearing cotton underwear to reduce the risk of vaginal infections. Regarding the cut of the underwear, the current study identified positive habits in 58.43% respondents, who preferred classic cotton panties (43.44% of French cut, and boxers and briefs 35.21%), while 31.09% preferred thongs.…”

“…Vyas et al (2015) showering, sufficient drying, daily changing of underwear, changing of wet swimwear for dry, appropriate hygiene during menstruation (replacement pads and tampons, menstrual cups), and hygiene before and after SI. Literature describes evidence associating inadequate IH with the development of bacterial vulvovaginal infections, or genital discomfort (Low et al, 2006;Klebanoff et al, 2011;Delago, Finkel, Deblinger, 2012;Sevil et al 2013;Attieh et al, 2016;Cemek et al, 2016). Studies by Sevil et al (2013) have shown that the frequency of genital infections was higher in female students with inadequate IH (underwear, and hygiene during menstruation and after toilet visits were surveyed).…”

PRECEDE-PROCEED Theory Regarding Socio-Cultural Aspects that Influence the Treatment of Healthy Reproduction Organs among Senior High School Female Students in Surakarta

“…Pouring vagina with cleansing solution aims at cleaning the vagina, controlling the body odor or controlling the vagina elasticity. Itches and irritations are general problems throughout the world (Attieh, 2016). The practice of douching is shaped by social and cultural norms regarding female cleanliness in their reproductive matters (McKee, 2009).…”