What is a douche?

A douche is a device used to introduce a jet of water to the inside of a part of the body so that it can be washed. Douching is done for either medical or hygiene reasons.

What are the ingredients in a douche?

Most often, vinegar is mixed with the water, but some prepackaged douche products contain baking soda or iodine. A few also contain antiseptics and fragrances. One in five women between the ages of 15 and 44 use douches regularly. A 2002 survey found that the practice is more common in African-American and Hispanic women.

Can I use a douche as a form of contraception?

Douching is not a valid form of contraception. However, using a douche can make it more difficult for a woman who is trying to conceive. Also, women who douche on a regular basis may have a more complicated pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience:

What are the risks of using a douche?

There are some risks with douching including infections and cervicitis. Douching is not a valid form of contraception. However, using a douche can make it more difficult for a woman who is trying to conceive. Also, women who douche on a regular basis may have a more complicated pregnancy.