Key Highlights: 

• Definition, origins, and explanation of vaginal steaming 
• How it works and alleged benefits, including physical health, emotional well-being, and menstrual health 
• The science behind the practice, current research, and potential risks/side effects 
• Precautions and recommendations to practice safely 
• Alternative approaches to maintaining vaginal health 

Introduction 

Vaginal steaming has gained popularity in recent years due to endorsements by celebrities and wellness advocates. Proponents of this ancient practice claim numerous physical and emotional health benefits. However, the science behind these claims is limited and the safety and efficacy of vaginal steaming remain controversial. 

In this blog, we will discuss what vaginal steaming is, explore its alleged benefits and potential risks, review the existing scientific research, discuss precautions and recommendations and investigate alternative approaches to maintaining vaginal health. 

Although traditionally believed to have health benefits, the practice of vaginal steaming may actually be harmful. This is due to your vulva’s extremely sensitive skin, which is prone to burns. Additionally, to my knowledge, steam and scented herbs have the potential to change the pH of your vagina, which may lead to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Understanding Vaginal Steaming 

What is vaginal steaming? 

Definition and explanation 

Vaginal steaming, also known as V-steaming or yoni steaming, is the process in which your vagina gets treated with herbal steam. This steam is said to clean and revive the vagina and uterus. The process may also ease period problems and improve a woman’s mood. 

Origins and cultural significance 

Nobody knows where exactly vaginal steaming comes from. But we do know that many old cultures used it. These include Korea, Central America, Africa, and Indonesia. It was mostly used for healing after birth or to boost feminine force and gusto. 

How does vaginal steaming work? 

In a typical V-steaming session, you sit or squat over a bowl containing hot water mixed with certain herbs. The steam from this mixture is believed to go into the vagina. It helps blood flow and takes in herbal qualities. The session often lasts 20-45 minutes. 

Purported benefits of vaginal steaming 

What can you gain from V-steaming? Supporters point to three areas of benefit: physical health, stress relief, and menstrual health. 

1. Physical health benefits 

Some claims of the physical health benefits you achieve with V-streaming are: 

• It cleans the vagina and uterus 
• Heals and tightens vaginal tissues 
• Eases pain from pelvic issues, such as endometriosis 

2. Emotional well-being and stress relief 

According to supporters, V-steaming might boost your emotional health by: 

• Cutting down stress and worry 
• Improving mood and energy 
• Fostering a sense of peace and power 

3. Menstrual and reproductive health 

Some believe that V-steaming can: 

• Ease cramps and lower heavy periods 
• Regulate irregular periods 
• Enhance fertility 
   

In my opinion, since the vagina naturally balances its microbiota, using steaming, douching, or other cleansing methods is neither required nor advised because the vagina is a self-cleaning organ.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

The Science Behind Vaginal Steaming 

Does vaginal steaming really work? 

Let’s check if claimed benefits of V-steaming are true or not. 

Current research and evidence supporting benefits 

Not many studies have been done yet on the benefits of V-steaming. We are left with stories, making it hard to test if the process works. More studies are needed to draw solid conclusions. 

Critics and limitations of existing research 

Some people doubt that V-steaming works, since no solid proof has been found yet. And many doctors warn against it due to dangers and side effects. It’s also pointed out that the vagina can clean itself and keep a proper pH balance. 

Is vaginal steaming safe? 

Is it safe to try V-steaming? 

Potential risks and side effects 

V-steaming could have some dangers and side effects. Here are some: 

• Burns from the steam 
• Allergy to treatment herbs 
• Upset of the vagina’s pH balance which could lead to infections 
   

Understanding your body’s natural self-cleaning mechanisms 

It’s important to remember that the vagina cleans itself and keeps a proper pH balance. External products and procedures like V-steaming can upset this balance and harm overall vaginal health. Instead of V-steaming, just keep clean and steer clear of harsh soaps or products for a healthy vagina. 

How to Practice Vaginal Steaming Safely 

If you still want to try V-steaming, remember to take precautions to lower possible dangers. 

1. Precautions and recommendations 

Here are some tips to do V-steaming safely: 

• Use clean gear 
• Pick mild, all-natural herbs and stay away from irritating ones 
• Check the steam temperature, it must not be too hot 
• Don’t steam for too long 
• Be aware of possible dangers and side effects, stop if you feel pain or discomfort 

2. Choosing the right herbs and ingredients 

Be picky about the herbs for your steam mix. Some commonly used ones are mugwort, rosemary, basil, and chamomile. Before using any herbs, do your research or ask a healthcare expert to avoid bad reactions or allergies. 

3. Appropriate steaming temperature 

Avoid burning or annoying your vagina by checking the steam’s heat. It must feel comfortable. Check the steam with your hand first to avoid harm. 

4. Duration and frequency 

Each V-steaming session should last no more than 20-30 minutes. Avoid excessive steaming that can lead to irritation and infection. Doing it only sometimes is best. And consider other ways to keep your vagina healthy. 

Also Read: Do Saunas Help You Lose Weight? A Detailed Look Into The Science Behind It

When not to try vaginal steaming 

V-steaming may not be good for everyone or under certain health states. 

• Health conditions that may contraindicate the practice 

If you have an active infection or weak immune system, then V-steaming may not be good for you. Always ask a healthcare expert before trying new healing methods. 

• Pregnancy and menstruation 

Don’t do V-steaming if you are pregnant. This could harm you and your baby. Some herbs used in the steam can cause miscarriage, making it vital to avoid V-steaming when pregnant. Also, avoid on the days of your period. 

• Understanding the importance of your vagina’s pH balance 

Keeping a proper pH balance in your vagina is key for peak health. V-steaming may upset this balance, leading to risk of infections and other problems. Just keep clean and avoid harsh soaps/products to keep your vagina clean, healthy, and balanced. 

Also Read: Effective Home Remedies For Vaginal Dryness

The Bottom Line on Vaginal Steaming 

1. Weighing the pros and cons 

While V-steaming has many celebrity fans, there’s little science to back its benefits. Before you try it, weigh potential risks against the tales of improved health in various areas. 

2. Seeking professional guidance before trying vaginal steaming 

If you are thinking of trying V-steaming, then be sure to speak to an expert in healthcare first. They will help you understand any possible dangers, side effects, or contraindications in your case. 

3. Alternative approaches to maintaining vaginal health 

Considering the little research on V-steaming, it may be good to look at other ways to keep a healthy vagina. Good cleaning, avoiding harsh products, regular exercise, and listening to your body’s needs all work towards a healthy vagina. 

Conclusion 

In summary, the practice of vaginal steaming remains controversial and has limited scientific evidence supporting its purported benefits. While many people claim improvements in physical and emotional well-being, it is crucial to weigh the potential risks and side effects before trying vaginal steaming. Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance and consider alternative methods for maintaining vaginal health to ensure the best possible outcomes for your unique situation. 

Ultimately, maintaining a healthy vagina is essential for overall well-being and comfort, so it is critical to be informed and make educated decisions regarding any treatments or therapies involving your reproductive system. 

Also Read: Cycle Syncing: A Detailed Understanding Based on Research & Science

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References: 

1. PubMed. ‘Basically, it’s sorcery for your vagina’: unpacking Western representations of vaginal steaming [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 13]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27719108 

2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Herbal Medicine in the United States: Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Regulation [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 13]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2517879 

3. ScienceDirect. Case Report [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 13]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1701216318305875#! 

4. PubMed. The role of lactic acid production by probiotic Lactobacillus species in vaginal health [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 13]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28435139 

5. PubMed. Second-Degree Burn Sustained After Vaginal Steaming [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 13]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366886 

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