We educate about supposedly taboo topics.
Pimples in the genital area or on the buttocks, discharge or strange stains in the underpants. You don’t talk about them. And if you do, it’s behind closed doors with your doctor or maybe in whispers with your best friend. Do you know the feeling that something is wrong with you? You think you must be the only one in the world who has these super embarrassing problems? With more than 7.7 billion people in the world, we can promise you one thing: It’s all normal and there’s nothing wrong with you!
1. Pimples in the intimate area
Pimples in the intimate area are very common and usually completely harmless. Humans have sebaceous glands all over their bodies (except on the palms of their hands and soles of their feet). These can become clogged in the case of excessive sebum production, which can happen, for example, with hormonal fluctuations or through sweat. In sensitive skin, pimples can also be caused by friction from underwear, shaving or other types of hair removal, or aggressive grooming. However, pimple-like blemishes can also be a symptom of an STD. If you have recently had unprotected sex, it would be advisable to consult a doctor. If this can be ruled out, it is best to simply leave the blemishes alone and under no circumstances press on them. The pimple could otherwise become infected or leave scars, so keep your hands off it!
However, there are a few things you can do to prevent pimples from forming:
- Wash your towels regularly at 60°C to kill bacteria
- Clean the intimate area with warm water and avoid shower gels and soaps – if you would like you can use a mild cleansing lotion
- Do not wear underwear made of synthetic fabrics. Go for cotton – it allows your skin to breathe.
- Dry thoroughly after showering. Damp, warm spots are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria
2. Pimples on your booty
The situation with pimples on the butt is very similar to that with pimples in the genital area. However, the best keyword here is: peel, peel, peel! This removes dead skin cells and prevents sebaceous glands from clogging and causing pimples.
3. Discharge
This is also quite normal! Discharge is a natural protective function for our uterus and vagina. Excess mucus and dead cells are thus discharged, and invaders are repelled. The tissue is kept moist and clean. Particularly at mid-cycle, women often have increased discharge. This should be transparent to white and smell neutral or slightly sweet. The consistency can be quite different: from thick to cheesy to thin, everything is quite common. There could be a sign of infection only if the discharge looks yellowish or greenish and has an unpleasant odor.
4. Discoloration of the underwear
Have you ever noticed that especially dark underwear often has orange stains after washing, which look like someone dumped bleach on the spot? You don’t have to worry about that either! Because our vulva is actually able to bleach textiles! Sounds crazy, but it’s really true. The pH value of our vagina is naturally acidic, which reduces the risk of being infected by sexually transmitted diseases. The acidic discharge can then lead to bleached spots in your underwear
Unfortunately, there is little that can be done about this. Wearing panty liners creates a barrier between the vulva and the underpants. Another option is to wash off the panties immediately after wearing them. This shortens the time for the “bleach” to take effect.
Can you think of any other taboo topics or any that are just too embarrassing to talk about? Then feel free to write us!
Edited and translated by April Verite.