Get ready to swoon—the day dedicated to love (and chocolate) is almost upon us: Valentine’s Day. There’ll be plenty of pink streamers and candy to go around—but this holiday is, first and foremost, a time to embrace love in all its forms and share it with our MVPs. And by that we mean family, friends, and of course: your vagina.
Sure, the heart is usually the organ that gets the most air time on February 14. But this year, we’d like to propose that we all spend a little extra time celebrating and honoring our vaginas this V-Day (pun absolutely intended).
Wanna join us? Here’s how you can start showing some extra love to a very special part of your body.
Get to know your vagina.
They say the ultimate expression of care is truly knowing someone—and a lil’ research is a great place to start. Misinformation is everywhere when it comes to the vagina, so consider taking this opportunity to read up about the incredible things that this marvelous organ of yours can do (seriously, the list is l-o-n-g).
Here’s a fun fact to get you started: did you know that vaginas can lift weights? In fact, a recent study found that weighted vaginal cones can be used to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.1 If that’s not a display of strength worth celebrating, we don’t know what is.
Spend some *quality* time with your vagina.
Hold the eyerolls, please. When’s the last time you really took a look at your vagina—or even your vulva? A survey found that over 44% of cisgender women were unable to identify the vagina on a diagram, and nearly two-thirds of those women couldn’t identify the vulva, or external genital organs.2
That info might be shocking to some, but with all the societal shame around the vagina, it’s no wonder folks don’t look at it more often. This Valentine’s Day, we challenge you to grab a hand mirror and really take a look when you’re thinking about your routine. That way, you’re better able to tell when things look different or off balance.
Give your vagina a spa day.
Just like any other hard worker, your vagina deserves some R&R. But we’re not talking about vaginal steaming. Seriously, do not steam your vagina. Although a “trendy” process, vaginal steaming can alter the delicate balance of bacteria in your vagina and lead to infection, which is not at all the vibe we’re going for.3
Instead, if you’re looking to feel fresh from the inside out, try a boric acid suppository to address your PH balance.* This is also a great idea if you’re planning on being sexually active on Valentine’s Day weekend.
Head to your yearly visit.
Listen, folks renew their driver’s licenses on their birthday for a reason: it’s easier to remember. This major holiday might be an opportune time to head to your gynecologist for an annual pap smear, pelvic exam, or wellness check-in.
Sure, it might not be the most glamorous thing to be doing around Valentine’s Day, but think about how much better you (and your vagina) might feel after checking in about its health. Consistent exams are important for maintaining vaginal wellness, so why not do it on a day dedicated to love and care?
Ditch the tight threads.
We are in no way trying to stop you from rockin’ your best look this holiday: you don’t have to skip out on tighter-fitting clothes for your Love Day plans. But when it comes to your underwear, consider opting for loose-fitting, 100% cotton briefs, boxers, or bikinis. Breathable fabrics like cotton guard your vagina from moisture build-up and potential infection or vaginosis. If super lacy lingerie’s a part of the plan, we totally understand—just consider opting for cotton undies on the days before and after.
Break up with bad routines.
If you really wanna love your vagina on V-Day, make sure your hygiene routine is optimal. Remember, the vagina cleans itself and your natural discharge is evidence of that. So, sort through your hygiene products and dump whatever’s not ideal for your vagina.
Say thank you.
Sending your vagina a valentine might seem a little over the line (we’re all for it), but feel free to take a moment to honor all the functions it serves. On this special day devoted to loving out loud, it might be good to spend a little extra time reflecting on all the hard work that every part of your body, including your vagina, puts in every day.
