It is important to clean the vulva, but since this area is almost as tender as the internal organs, it needs proper care and a hygiene routine, so that you don't face any discomfort.

Dr. Mugdha Raut, gynaecologist at Dr Rauts Maternity and Surgical Home, advises on how you can avoid infections by following these dos and don'ts

Boils in the Summer

If you are suffering from heat boils in summer, you are most likely to get one on your vulva. Do not apply any sort of medicine without consulting the doctor. Immediately go in for some type of treatment because the vulva skin is very prone to big infected boils full of puss.

Use plain cold water to clean the area around the boil. Do not apply any soothing or cooling creams because that might cause further irritation.

Do not apply ice, but you can wrap ice in a plain cotton soft cloth and then place the cloth on the infected area.

No Talcum Powder Down There

Talcum powder gets trapped in the moisture and forms a thick layer of a powdery mixture that clogs the vulva. This can often cause infection. If you have been using talcum powder for ages, speak to your doctor. Although it is very rare, powders have been a cause vulva and vaginal cancer.

Clean Both Ways

When you pass stools, clean your vulva and vagina along with your rectum. A wash and wipe routine is a must else bacteria could cause recurring infections in your vulva or vagina.

Sanitary Napkins Give you a Rash

Some times the material used by the napkin may not suit your skin. Constant rubbing of that particular material will give you a rash. Go in for a different sanitary napkin. Clean the area that has the rash with soft cotton and water. You could consult your doctor and apply the specific anti inflammatory ointment.

External Use Only

Deodorants, Perfumes and moisturisers are a complete no-no. Do not experiment with creams down there. Even using different harsh soaps can cause irritation. If you experience some sort of a rash do not use anti-septic liquids or creams. Anti-bacterial or anti-fungal ointments are safer.

Sweat and Itch

Keep the area dry. Excessive sweating can be prevented by wearing loose cotton panties during summers and avoiding other materials such as silk, lace, net and other synthetic material. If you sweat in and around that area do not use any antiperspirants. Just wash it with plain cold water and keep the area clean.