Female Health Tips College of the Canyons Student Health and Wellness Center 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita California 91355 661-362-3259 HYGIENE NO perfumed soap, deodorant soap, body wash, or shaving gels around the vagina. These cause dryness and irritation. Use baby bath liquid soap. It is very mild and will not cause a rash. It is also fine to use for shaving If you are sexually active, try to pee before and after sex. Use baby wipes prior to sex, as this deceases the amount of surface bacteria around the vagina, which cuts down on bladder and vaginal infections. Be sure to wipe from front to back. Have your male partner use a condom or wet wipes, in order to minimize bacteria. Use water soluble lubricants on the vulvae and in the vagina to protect sensitive skin. No douching NUTRITION SUPPLEMENTS Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day Do not skip meals especially if you are on hormonal contraceptives. This will cause nausea. Take ONE multivitamin daily (Flintstones Complete, Centrum...) These provide 100% of the adult dose of vitamins, minerals, and iron you need. DO NOT take “gummies”, they contain no iron Take a calcium supplement. Your body needs 1200-1500mg of calcium daily (equivalent to 4-5 glasses of milk). Viactiv (500mg each), Tums, Caltrate chewable, and soy milk are good choices. 1 glass of milk contains 300 mg Debbie Sargent NP