Introduction

Ladies, let’s talk about the cycle nobody warns you about—the BV cycle. You know the drill: one minute you’re feeling fine, and the next, you’re googling symptoms, stocking up on over-the-counter treatments, and scheduling another awkward doctor visit. Then comes the advice: “Just wash the vulva,” or worse, “Do nothing. The vagina cleans itself.” Really? How’s that working out for you?

It’s time to stop the BV cycle in its tracks. This isn’t about fancy soaps, questionable trends, or half-baked advice—it’s about embracing common sense, generational wisdom, and proven techniques that actually work.

In this blog, you’ll discover the powerful truth behind proper vaginal hygiene, the game-changing Squat and Clean Method, and why modern science is missing the mark when it comes to women’s health. Packed with expert-backed insights, Liberian traditions, and a splash of humor, this guide will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to take control of your health once and for all.

If you’ve ever wondered why you’re stuck in a cycle of recurring infections, questioned popular hygiene norms, or simply want to feel more confident in your body—this is the blog you didn’t know you needed. Let’s get real, get informed, and get clean.

Personal Story: Why I Become Obsessed With Vagina Cleanliness 

Let me tell you about a friend of mine. We were part of a close-knit group in Minnesota, and she was one of those rare souls who lights up a room. She started dating a mutual friend of ours—a guy we’ll call John—who had been quietly smitten with her for years. Watching them together was like seeing two puzzle pieces finally click.

Fast forward a few years: I moved to Nigeria, got married, and had two boys. Life was busy but good, and I was thrilled to hear that six months into their relationship, my friend and John were talking about marriage. The thought of them finally tying the knot made me giddy—it felt like a storybook ending waiting to happen. I am a Romantic Women’s Fiction Novelist. I love love stories.

But then one night, while I was lying in bed with my husband, my phone rang. It was her, crying so hard I could barely understand her. “He’s left and hasn’t called,” she said, her voice breaking. “John left, and he hasn’t talked to me since.”

I sat up confused. “What happened?” I asked, heart racing.

She explained that during an intimate moment, everything seemed fine—until it wasn’t. Right when things were heating up, John suddenly grew cold and distant. He got up, mumbled something about needing to leave, and never came back. “The way he looked at me…” she whispered. “I’ve never felt so unwanted and insecure in my life.”

I started poking around, asking the obvious questions:

Was it something you said?

Could it have been a misunderstanding?

Have you noticed anything different about yourself or him lately?

Her answers didn’t reveal anything unusual, so I took matters into my own hands. I called John, hoping for some clarity. He sounded reluctant at first, but then he admitted the truth.

“She smelled,” he said bluntly. “I didn’t know how to deal with it, and I didn’t know how to tell her. As a man, I’m not used to that.”

His words hit me like a brick. I was furious on her behalf but also heartbroken for them both. This isn’t the first time I have had such conversations with men. I have five brothers and lots of male friends and these conversations are ones I sat in countless times.

When I relayed the conversation to her, she was devastated. “No one’s ever told me these things before,” she said through tears. I asked about how she cleaned and she explained. “I thought I was doing everything right. No wonder I kept getting BV, even when I wasn’t having sex,” she mumbled after my observations.

What followed was a series of conversations where I broke down everything I knew about vaginal care—the very things I’d later write in this blog. She listened without taking offense, desperate to understand how to take care of herself. No one had to tell her to make a change.

The happy ending? They worked things out. John appreciated her willingness to learn, and she appreciated his honesty. They’re engaged now, set to marry this December.

But that experience taught me something that sticks with me every day:

How many women are losing out on amazing relationships because no one ever taught them the basics of proper vaginal care?

How many men have walked away, leaving women to assume they’re “just after sex” or “not serious,” when the real issue is unspoken discomfort?

How many women have normalized unpleasant vaginal odors, convinced that’s just how it’s supposed to smell?

And how many of us are spending thousands on doctors, creams, and fruity feminine washes, masking the problem instead of addressing the root cause?

This isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about confidence, self-respect, and breaking free from myths that hold us back. If my friend’s story resonates with you, stick around. Let’s stop the cycle, together.

The Tictok Story: A Gynecologist’s Frustration 

Let’s talk about a TikToker whose story went viral—and not for the reasons you might expect. She shared a vulnerable moment that left millions of viewers stunned: her gynecologist gave up on her.

For years, this woman had been battling recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV). Every few months, she’d visit her gynecologist, desperate for answers and relief. He tried everything—medications, probiotics, lifestyle recommendations—but nothing seemed to work. Time and again, she’d return with the same issue.

Finally, at one appointment, he sighed and told her something she never expected to hear from a medical professional: “There’s nothing more I can do for you.” He was frustrated, tired, and essentially admitting defeat.

Her story isn’t unique. Many doctors face this same challenge, especially with women who experience recurring vaginal issues. They do everything their training and protocols suggest, but when the results don’t last, they’re left shrugging their shoulders.

But here’s where the problem lies: the widely accepted medical belief that “the vagina cleanses itself.”

This narrative has been drilled into women for generations. We’ve been told to “just leave it alone,” and that using water or cleaning techniques disrupts some mythical self-cleaning mechanism. But what happens when this approach doesn’t work? What happens when the advice to “do nothing” leads to years of discomfort, emotional stress, and even strained relationships?

The woman on TikTok believed the same myths so many of us do—and it cost her. Not just in terms of health but in time, money, and trust in medical professionals. Her gynecologist wasn’t wrong in his frustration; he was doing everything he was trained to do. But the science that shapes this training is flawed, and women are paying the price.

This is exactly why I wrote this book. I want to challenge this belief head-on and equip women with the knowledge they’ve been denied. The truth is, the vagina isn’t a magical self-cleaning oven. There are specific ways to care for it—ways that work, ways that prevent problems like recurring BV, and ways that leave you feeling confident, healthy, and in control of your body.

Let’s stop accepting half-baked advice and start embracing solutions that truly work. My book debunks the myth, uncovers the truth, and offers you the tools to reclaim your health.

Myth Busting: Science vs Common Sense

The widely spread myth that “the vagina cleanses itself” is deeply ingrained, but let’s take a deeper look at why this idea doesn’t hold up when it comes to maintaining proper hygiene. While it’s true that the vagina has natural mechanisms to keep the internal environment in balance, it still requires care and attention. Just because your body has self-regulating features doesn't mean it's exempt from regular maintenance. Let's put it into perspective:

Saliva helps keep the mouth moist, but does that mean you skip brushing your teeth?

Sweat helps expel toxins, but would you stop showering altogether?

The same logic applies to vaginal health. While the vagina has self-cleaning properties for the internal part, the external areas, including the vulva, need intentional care. This is where the “self-cleaning” myth falls short. But there’s more—this myth is also used to discourage washing inside the vagina, claiming that it can disrupt your pH balance. This belief is not just misguided—it’s simply untrue. How can plain water, the most natural and simple element, possibly disrupt your pH? That’s not common sense.

Women are suffering from recurring BV (bacterial vaginosis) like it’s just another part of the monthly routine. And who’s their best friend? Their gynecologists and pharmacists, who they visit so often that they’re now on a first-name basis. Isn’t it wild? You could be popping pills, using creams, and depending on doctors for a “quick fix,” all while ignoring one simple solution: proper vaginal hygiene.

Let’s start with some common sense examples. Imagine walking into your house and never cleaning it because “it cleans itself.” Over time, wouldn’t the dust and grime pile up? Or consider skipping showers altogether because, well, your body’s natural sweat and oil will “cleanse” you. Sound ridiculous? Exactly. The same applies to vaginal care. The idea that “the vagina cleans itself” has been overly generalized and misunderstood. While the internal vagina does have self-cleaning mechanisms, the vulva and external areas need active care—just like every other part of your body.

The Solution: A Balanced Approach 

Instead of relying on products that provide short-term fixes, take a common-sense approach to vaginal care. The key is to clean the external genital area with plain water, using your finger for the Squat and Clean method. This technique keeps the vagina clean without disturbing the natural pH. The focus should be on keeping things simple: use plain water—no soap, no fancy products, just water. This doesn’t disturb your natural balance and is the most effective way to keep everything fresh and healthy.

Debunking the Medical Myths

Popular websites, like MedicalNewsToday, Healthline, BloomOB/GYN, and MorelandOBGYN often advise against washing the vulva and not inside the, vagina. While this advice sounds scientifically sound, it overlooks cultural and practical nuances. These recommendations are often based on Western hygiene practices, where excessive use of harsh soaps and douching has caused more harm than good. However, what they fail to acknowledge is that a tailored approach, like what I call “the squat and clean method”, provides effective care without upsetting the vaginal pH.

Scientific evaluations often miss the mark because they fail to study diverse practices globally. Cultures like Liberia have centuries of proven practices that prioritize hygiene without compromising health. Ignoring this wisdom reflects a biased lens, framing Western norms as the universal standard. A more inclusive scientific approach would reveal that many non-Western traditions are grounded in practical, long-term health benefits.

The myth that washing inside the vagina with plain water can disrupt your pH is not only false but completely illogical. Your pH balance is designed to be resilient, and using plain water (not soap be it mild or not, or harsh chemicals) helps maintain that balance, rather than disrupting it. So, it's time to stop believing the myth that the vagina should only be washed externally (the vulva), and instead, embrace the logic behind a simple, natural method.

By understanding how to care for the external and internal parts of the vagina with straightforward and effective hygiene practices, women can take control of their health and debunk these outdated myths and see real change in their health, and confidence.

Popular Feminine Hygiene Products Profiting From Misconceptions 

Many feminine hygiene brands capitalize on the belief that the vagina needs scented washes or sprays to smell “fresh.” These products, often marketed with promises of confidence and cleanliness, can actually disrupt the vagina’s natural balance, leading to recurring issues like BV.

Instead of addressing the root causes of odors or infections, they mask symptoms, keeping women dependent on their products. Education about simple, effective hygiene practices—like using plain water—is key to breaking this cycle and empowering women to make informed choices.

Vagisil Odor Block Wash: Promotes odor protection but contains fragrances that may irritate.

Summer’s Eve Cleansing Wash: Heavily marketed but often criticized for containing artificial scents and chemicals.

Lume Deodorant for Private Parts: A newer product designed for long-lasting freshness but still focuses on masking rather than solving issues.

Remember, true confidence comes from understanding your body and treating it with care—not by masking it with products. A simple, natural approach is all you need to feel confident and fresh.

The Squat and Clean Method: A Step by Step Guide

Start with Plain Water: Get clean water—no soap, no fancy feminine washes, just plain water from your bucket or showerhead. We are being practical here.

Squat Comfortably: Squatting provides better access and allows you to thoroughly clean the area without awkward stretching.

Open and Clean: Use your clean fingers and insert it into your vagina and let the water run through your hands into your vagina. Slowly move your finger in a circular motion.  You might feel the inside is slimy or muddy. 

Rinse Thoroughly: Slowly rinse away any remaining residue until the inside of your vagina is clean. You will not feel the slimy or muddy feeling anymore and it will feel tighter, and you will feel your vagina walls.

Pat Dry: Use a clean, dry towel to pat the area gently. Avoid rubbing, as it can irritate the sensitive skin. Also, leaving it wet can cause yeast infection. Yeast feeds on moist places.

This age-old Liberian practice has been passed down from generation to generation, emphasizing hygiene as an essential part of women’s health. Unlike some modern advice, which insists on leaving the vagina alone, this tradition recognizes that proper care ensures balance and reduces recurring infections. It honors the body and promotes health while challenging harmful myths that discourage active hygiene practices. By incorporating this method into your daily routine, you can reduce recurring infections like BVs, UTIs, Vagina odors, and boost your confidence.

Why It Works

Unlike many modern recommendations that overly rely on the idea of “leaving things natural,” the Squat and Clean Method bridges the gap between tradition and practicality. It respects the body’s natural processes while ensuring thorough hygiene—a balance that’s been essential for generations.

Engagement Questions With Answers

How many women do you think are silently struggling with BV and have no idea what’s causing it?
Answer: Millions of women globally are dealing with recurring BV without understanding the root cause. Poor hygiene myths, like “the vagina cleanses itself,” combined with a lack of practical education, contribute to this silent epidemic.

Have you ever normalized something that didn’t feel right because “that’s just how it is”?
Answer: Many women normalize unpleasant vaginal odors or recurring discomfort, believing it’s “natural” or unavoidable. These misconceptions can lead to low confidence and missed opportunities to improve their health.

Have you or someone you know been treated for BV over and over again, only for it to keep coming back?
Answer: Recurring BV is often a sign that the underlying cause hasn’t been addressed. While antibiotics can clear an infection temporarily, poor hygiene practices or reliance on scented products can undo progress and lead to repeated infections.

Reviews That Speak Volumes

Here’s what women who’ve adopted this method have to say:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book, but I decided to try the techniques, and wow! For the first time in years, I don’t have that thick discharge I used to deal with daily. I feel so much fresher and cleaner, and I’m genuinely shocked. Thank you, Sianah, for sharing these secrets—I had no idea washing inside was even an option!” – Jessica Turner.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Can I just say how honored I feel to be one of the first to read this book? It’s like holding onto a golden secret. I tried the techniques, and they work! I feel fresher, tighter, and more confident than I’ve ever felt. I’ve been bragging to my friends about reading it first, and I can’t wait to see this book blow up. Amazing work, Sianah!” – Olivia Patterson

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Liberian traditions are pure gold. I’m so glad I found this guide. My confidence has never been higher!” – Grace L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I was hesitant to try the advice because it goes against what I’ve always been told. But after a few days of following the techniques, I couldn’t believe how much better I felt. No itching, no odor, no discomfort—just a fresh, clean feeling. I can’t thank the author enough for sharing this wisdom. – Brianna Flowers

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Before reading this, I struggled with constant itching, and it made me so self-conscious. I followed the step-by-step advice in the book, and within a few days, the itching was completely gone! I feel so much better now, and I can’t thank the author enough for sharing these traditional practices. Every woman needs this book!” – Amanda Manuel

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Trying the techniques from this book has been a game-changer. I used to think thick discharge was just normal for me, but after implementing what I learned, it’s completely gone. I feel so clean and fresh—it’s honestly unbelievable. This book has opened my eyes to things I didn’t even know were possible!” – Emily Larry

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I’ve never felt this clean in my life. I used to deal with severe odors, especially after workouts, but since trying the methods in the book, that’s a thing of the past. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a difference. I’m forever grateful!– Laurie

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I feel so lucky to be one of the first to read this book—it’s empowering and packed with so much wisdom. Right from chapter one, I abandoned the book and rushed to the shower to try the techniques, and although I am praying that it works for me permanently and my BV doesn't come back for the fourth time in six months, washing inside my vagina twice a day have made a world of difference. No discharge, no odor, and I feel so confident. If the BVs don't come back, you will get a huge tip from me! – Tolu

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hilarious, empowering, and so needed. Girl, Wash Your VJJ! takes a taboo topic and makes it approachable. The stories and tips had me laughing out loud and taking notes. If you’re a woman, you need this book in your life. – Amie Jackson

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book is like a manual for modern women, but way more fun and relatable. The author’s voice is so engaging, and the advice is practical and easy to follow. Plus, the cultural perspective adds so much depth. Absolutely loved it!– Brit O. 

Embracing Generational Wisdom

Liberian women have practiced proper vaginal care for centuries, with methods that have stood the test of time. These traditions are not about myths or superstitions—they are practical, effective, and rooted in understanding the female body. By incorporating this wisdom, you can break free from recurring infections and experience a newfound sense of health and empowerment.

Remember, your body deserves respect, care, and attention. Don’t let one-size-fits-all advice hold you back. Try “the squat and clean method” today and see the difference for yourself!

Start your journey today with simple, effective hygiene practices!

Discover Girl, Wash Your VJJ!, and reclaim your confidence for good.

Conclusion

In this journey, we’ve debunked the myth that “the vagina cleanses itself,” provided practical hygiene tips, and emphasized the importance of empowering yourself with knowledge. Taking charge of your vaginal health is not just about breaking free from recurring issues like BV—it's about embracing confidence, comfort, and control over your well-being.

Don’t let myths and misinformation hold you back. Grab your copy of Girl, Wash Your VJJ! today and start your journey to better health, balance, and empowerment! Your body deserves the best care—start now!