For some women, douching is a routine practice. But in an analysis of studies on douching published in the last 30 years, Mount Sinai School of Medicine researchers found that frequent douching may increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease by 73 percent and ectopic pregnancy by 76 percent. Two more recent studies of douching among young, high risk women suggested a strong association between douching and the risk of sexually transmitted infections. This risk may not be as high for older women. But no studies to date have shown a benefit to women who douche routinely.
Douching is unnecessary for routine feminine hygiene, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The vagina can cleanse itself. If a woman uses a douche to cover an unpleasant odor, she could mask an infection that needs to be evaluated by her care provider.
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Last Updated: September 27, 2009