Would you use soap and water to brush your teeth?
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Women generally use specialised products for different parts of their body – toothpaste for the teeth, shampoo for the hair, face wash for the face. Why, then, when it comes to the vagina, the most intimate part of our body, and one of the most delicate, do we not use a product specially formulated to protect and maintain freshness?
In many parts of the world, the use of specialised female hygiene products is standard. “The pH of the external vaginal region is acidic,” says gynaecologist Dr Lizelle Nortje. “Maintaining an acidic pH is the first step to keeping the healthy microbes functioning, and preventing the symptoms that can occur when unhealthy microbes flourish, such as itching and irritation” .
According to Dr. Nortje, the ideal vaginal wash is one that has a pH similar to that of the adult female vagina, i.e. between 3,8 and 4,5 . It should also be liquid, as bar soaps tend to contain astringent ingredients that disrupt vaginal pH, leading to the destruction of normal, healthy microflora3. Also, a bar soap shared by the family is potentially problematic when it comes to delicate micro-environment of the vagina, and washes which are highly perfumed can be irritants3.
Lactacyd®, a mild liquid cleanser formulated specifically for vaginal hygiene, is the world’s leading topical feminine hygiene wash4 and is now available in South Africa. It has been trusted by doctors and consumers for many years. It is formulated with lactic acid and lactoserum, both of which come from milk. They are pH-balancers which help to maintain the pH balance of the external genital area5.
A pH imbalance in the external genital area causes many disturbances such as itching, bad odours and irritations, inflammation and bacterial infections5.
Lactacyd® acts as a daily protector against the symptoms of minor infections of the external genital area, such as strong odours and irritations5.
Lactacyd® has a clean, soft, fresh smell, and is a natural deodoriser. It is colourless, has a lightly viscous texture, and is so gentle that it can be used every day, more than once if desired. It is packaged in a white, bathroom-friendly flip-top dispenser.
Find Lactacyd® in the feminine health sections in Dischem, selected Clicks, Pick n Pay and Spar outlets, as well as at leading pharmacies.

VAGINAL HYGIENE: SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Is a feminine hygiene wash such as Lactacyd® appropriate for all women, at all times? Most women are aware that with the seasons, and with our hormonal ebbs and flows, vaginal sensitivities and hygiene needs seem to change. And what about when you have your period?
For more information please visit the Lactacyd website: http://za.lactacyd-info.com
Question: Which webste is mentioned in the above article?
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