Take a peek at changes in vaginal health at every age level

Vaginal health in your 20s

Your 20s are some of the best years for your vagina, because the sex hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are at their peak. Estrogen is responsible for keeping the vagina lubricated, moisturized, elastic, and acidic.

The vagina is surrounded by two folds of skin known as the inner labia and outer labia. The outer labia contain a layer of fatty tissue. At this age, the outer layer is thinner and may appear smaller. In addition, your sexual desire also increases.

If you are sexually active, especially if you have frequent sex, you may develop urinary tract infections (UTIs) as bacteria pass from the vagina to the urethra.

To help prevent the risk of urinary tract infections, urinate as soon as possible after sex. This will help flush bacteria from your vagina.

Even so, the vagina has the ability to clean itself. The vagina secretes a whitish discharge to help clean the vagina to keep it clean and healthy, as well as provides lubrication and protects the vagina from infection and irritation.

Vaginal health in your 30s

During your 30s, your inner labia may darken due to hormonal changes. If you are pregnant, vaginal discharge may increase and appear milky, but not green or yellow in color. The vaginal discharge that is released at that time may also have a slight odor, but it will not smell bad or fishy.

After giving birth, your vagina may lose some of its elasticity and stretch more than usual. However, over time, most vaginas will return to their pre-birth size. Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and restore the shape of the vagina.

Oral contraceptives can cause vaginal changes such as increased vaginal discharge, vaginal dryness, and bleeding. These symptoms often go away on their own.

However, if these symptoms persist, consult your doctor. You may need to try several oral contraceptives to find one that works really well for you.