Elderly Care: Helping You Deal With the Dying Process
Ladies, Here's 3 Hygiene Rituals That Are Causing You Harm And What You Should Do Instead
Julio Carr
Even as modern medicine continues to improve, there still seems to be a lot of misconceptions surrounding proper hygiene practices. Below are three hygiene rituals that are commonly performed by women that are actually causing you more harm than good and what you should be doing instead.
Applying Talcum Powder Below the Belt
Talcum powder is a cosmetic powder that's commonly used to prevent moisture and friction, but its use below the belt has recently been linked to an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
While the risk is considered small, the International Agency for Research on Cancer did determine that the use of talc-based powders near the genitals is possibly carcinogenic to humans. Even if the risk isn't definitive, there are some alternative options to keeping you dry and comfortable that carry no risks at all. To avoid a buildup of moisture, wear only 100% cotton underwear, as it's non-irritating and allows for air flow. Too-tight pants can also cause issues with friction and should be avoided if moisture is a problem.
Cleaning Ears with Cotton Swabs
While the use of cotton swabs when cleaning your ears may provide you with a feel-good experience, it isn't recommended by doctors. Why? You may pick up a bit of earwax on the swab, but the majority of it is being compacted against the ear drum.
Ear wax is a bodily fluid that is created for your benefit, so unless the wax is excessive, removal is not necessary. If you do feel that you produce too much wax, visit with your doctor for further instructions. There are many removal options aside from cotton swaps, such as ear drops. If ear wax compaction is an issue, its removal should only be performed by a doctor, as improper removal could cause further compaction and even damage to the ear drum.
Using a Feminine Douche
As a self-cleaning organ, your vagina doesn't need any help to do its job. When you use a douche, you're throwing off your vagina's natural pH balance, which can result in a number of unpleasant issues.
If you're experiencing odors or secretions that cause worry, instead of douching, it's better to consult with your gynecologist. The use of a douche can cover up signs of an infection and can even make a current infection worse. Signs of a vaginal infection include an unpleasant odor, oddly-colored vaginal discharge, itching, and burning. So ladies, before reaching for the douche, make an appointment with your gynecologist instead.
For more information, contact Cherry Creek Wellness Center, Inc. or a similar location.
Share
As an elderly care worker, I have witnessed the deaths of many individuals. I have seen family members become angry, sad, and completely silent at the end. I have also seen individuals refuse to see family members out of denial. People deal with death in different ways, and the strong emotions are often unfamiliar and scary. If you have a parent or grandparent who is elderly, then I want to share with you what I know about end of life care and dying process. We are a society that does not talk about death, and this can cause great pain when a family member dies. Learn about the process and find out how to deal with your own emotions and how to love your family members at the end. If there is only a small amount of time left, then I want you to cherish the final moments.