Why experts want you to think twice before getting your vagina steamed
A British woman suffered second-degree burns after getting her vagina steamed. We talked to experts about the wellness procedure and its benefits and risks.
Why experts want you to think twice before getting your vagina steamed
A British woman suffered second-degree burns after getting her vagina steamed. We talked to experts about the wellness procedure and its benefits and risks.
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I’ve done a lot of wild stuff for the sake of wellness—like getting a crystal facial (which felt really good) and detoxing my body in a pool of lava rocks (which absolutely did not feel really good)—but nothing quite tops the time I got a vagina steam.
Like Chrissy Teigen and Gwyneth Paltrow, I too have sat on a pot of boiling water and herbs for the sake of my nether regions. And while my experience was nothing short of lovely (they even gave me watermelon to snack on while I was getting steamed, which was weird but kind of nice), it’s something most OB/GYNs would say is not the best idea. Case in point: A woman in Canada was recently left with second-degree burns after trying the treatment for herself, which, ouch. (Her case was even published in a medical journal.) Upon hearing the news, UK-based gynecologist Philippa Kaye took to Twitter to beg people not to steam their lady parts, filing it under #thingsntotodotoyourvagina.
What is vagina steaming, exactly? “Think of a V-Steam as a facial for your vagina. It creates the same effects as a facial but it does so internally for your uterus and vaginal canal,” the YinOva Center, a center for acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in New York City, writes on their website. The practice is apparently rooted in some global traditions: In Korea, for example, it’s known as chai-york, and the treatment often used mugwort and other medicinal herbs. It also reportedly was part of Mayan medical practices (known as bajos).
“The idea is [that] having a medicated steam with mugwort and wormwood sprayed at the vagina will ultimately be a uterine cleanse as well,” says Sherry Ross, MD, an OB/GYN and author of She-Ology, who says there would need to be medical research studies that support the health claims before she recommends the treatment to her patients. “The end result, so [supporters] claim, is help in treating irregular periods, vaginal cysts, bladder infections, yeast infections, uterine fibroids, infertility, and even hemorrhoids.”
“There are no known medical benefits or accepted medical literature that supports the claims that vaginal steaming is effective, for the purposes of cleaning the vagina or increased fertility.” —Jen Villavicencio, MD
Having tried the treatment for myself while traveling through Bali—another place where it’s been popular for centuries—I can give you a little insight into what it was like (so that you don’t have to try it for yourself and risk the whole “burning your vagina” thing). Mine started with a full-body massage, and then I sat on a pot of herb-filled hot water for 30 minutes. The experience of having steam wafting into my lady bits was weird—not good, but not necessarily bad—and I left feeling pretty much exactly the same as I had when I walked in. I had a theory that it cleansed the evil spirits of all of my exes out of there, but that was about it.
Admittedly, the meh-ness of the experience makes sense, because there is no research out there to support any of the benefits associated with vaginal steaming. “There are no known medical benefits or accepted medical literature that supports the claims that vaginal steaming is effective, for the purposes of cleaning the vagina or increased fertility,” Jen Villavicencio, MD, an OB/GYN and member of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) said in an e-mailed statement. “As far as whether steaming is dangerous, there have been reports of severe vulvar burns from the steam being too hot or prolonged exposure.”
Burning isn’t the only potential side effect to consider with these types of treatments. “My concern would be that steam cleaning could have a similar consequence of douching—it’s important to clean the vagina on the outside but you don’t have to do too much internal cleaning,” agrees Dr. Ross. “The vagina has its own internal washing machine that keeps it cleaned and balanced. It’s really all about the pH balance. As soon as something disrupts this balance, such as extreme heat or taking antibiotics, you can get a yeast or bacterial infection.”
Experts also say to take the fertility-boosting claims with a hefty grain of salt. “There is no medical evidence or plausible biological theory that vaginal steaming would improve chances of becoming pregnant,” Dr. Villavicencio continued in her statement. “Becoming pregnant is a complex process that requires many components to work in harmony,” she says, including a person’s partner, age, weight loss, fertility medications, contraceptive usage, timing of sexual activity.
Despite the fact that there are no proven health benefits and some real potential risks, Dr. Ross isn’t totally opposed to vaginal steaming. “There is no doubt an herbal steam on the outside of the vagina has a relaxing, calming and cleaning effect which clearly is beneficial to your mind and vagina,” she says. And as director of gynecology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine Charles J. Ascher-Walsh said in a 2012 article for Whole Living, “It’s reasonable to think that steam could soften the cervix and cervical mucus to make fertility-related procedures easier,” adding that the herbs could also have an “aromatherapy-like” effect that can help with de-stressing.
Personally, I think from now on I’ll try de-stressing my vagina (and mind/body/soul) the good, old fashioned way: with the help of a battery operated assistant instead of a pot full of herbs.
One thing that will make your vagina a lot happier than a steam? Masturbating with one of these next-level (sustainable!) vibrators. And, bonus: It could also leave you with glowing skin.
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Constipation is more than just "trouble going"—it's a common digestive issue where bowel movements feel infrequent, difficult to pass, or incomplete. Because a variety of symptoms can result from constipation, it stands to reason that not all constipation is the same. In fact, there are several unique types of constipation—all with different causes and treatments.
If one of your goals this year is to prioritize your gut health, figuring out the type of constipation that you are dealing with is a great way to start. To help unpack the different types and what might be causing them, we spoke with a gut health dietitian and gastroenterologist. Read on to hear their advice—especially on how to get your gut moving again.
6 types of constipation and how to treat them
Before this article, you might not have even known that different types of constipation exist—but they do! In medicine, the subtypes are broken down by a checklist called theROME IV criteria, which healthcare providers use to determine whether people have a disorder relating to the gut-brain connection, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Conditions like IBS are tricky to diagnose because scans and tests (such as endoscopies or colonoscopies) don't show that anything is wrong with the gastrointestinal tract. This is where criteria like the ROME IV checklist help; it goes over the very real symptoms that people with these gut disorders experience.
According to the ROME IV criteria, there are four main types of constipation, which include:
Functional constipation: What we typically think of when we talk about constipation (infrequent, hard stools).
Irritable bowel syndrome—constipation subtype (IBS-C): Where constipation is present with pain as a predominant feature.
Medication-induced constipation: Constipation induced by medications such as opioids (a class of drugs that slow the bowels down).
Constipation caused by defecation disorders1: Constipation caused by the dyscoordination of muscles needed to have a proper bowel movement.
Slow transit constipation2: Constipation caused by slow movement of food and stool through the intestines.
Constipation caused by inadequate energy intake: Constipation caused by not eating enough food, which yes, can 100 percent happen.
Curious to know which type you have? We've broken down the most common symptoms of each to help you figure it out.
1. Functional Constipation
"Functional constipation is constipation to which we don't actually have an explanation," says Hardy. She notes that while a low-fiber diet and lifestyle factors (like not getting daily exercise) can cause it, some people's bowels are inherently slower, which leads to constipation symptoms like straining, hard and lumpy stools, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, or blockage of the bowels.
How to treat it
"With all types of constipation, but especially functional constipation, I like to start with eating more fiber, incorporating a "constipation superfood" (more on that later), and adding a fiber supplement," says Hardy. She adds that while these strategies give you the most bang for your buck, some people need to layer on other strategies.
If this does not work, Dr. Robbins notes that providers may prescribe other types of medication like linaclotide (a medication for IBS-C that draws fluid to the bowels) or prucalopride (a chronic constipation medication that stimulates the muscles in your gut to get poop moving more efficiently) may be necessary.
2. IBS-C
Irritable bowel syndrome—constipation subtype, also known as IBS-C, is when constipation and pain are the predominant symptoms of your IBS, says Hardy. "IBS is considered a diagnosis of gut-brain interaction," she explains. Our gut and brain are highly connected through our nervous system. "In IBS, how we regulate and sense digestion via our nervous system is not working as it should," she notes.
Hardy notes that there are many reasons for this, but the dysregulation can lead to the perception of pain—especially if your gut is full of stool, which is essentially what happens when your intestines are backed up since stool hasn't moved as it normally should.
How to treat it
Hardy says IBS-C is treated similarly to functional constipation, but another avenue to consider is trying the low-FODMAP diet. This specialized diet, which involves reducing the amount of gas-producing foods you consume (think: beans and broccoli), has been proven effective for managingIBS-related pain3 in recent studies. Another option for managing IBS-C pain is to use medications that specifically work to reduce pain perception in the gut alongside resolving constipation, says Hardy.
Dr. Robbins adds that taking a daily probiotic can help some people with IBS-C, while other people might benefit from things like talk therapy, as stress4 can be a huge trigger for IBS symptoms. This is why dealing with stress—through therapy or things like meditation and exercise—may help improve your gut health.
Hardy explains that while diet and lifestyle can be helpful, most often, medications are needed to manage this type of constipation. "A type of medication called 'opioid receptor antagonists' is most often used because they block opioids from having their slowing effects on the bowels," she adds.
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Dr. Robbins also says that laxatives can be used to treat this type of constipation, too, as long as it doesn't negatively interact with what you're already taking. That said, always check in with your healthcare provider before adding laxatives to your routine.
4. Constipation caused by defecation disorders
"This subtype of constipation is often caused by the discoordination of the muscles needed to have a proper bowel movement," explains Hardy. She adds that while this subtype of constipation isn't often talked about, it's actually extremely common.
To have a bowel movement, many body systems have to work together. "From generating proper pressure in the abdomen (i.e., intra-abdominal pressure5) to relaxing the pelvic floor muscles and coordinating the sphincter that helps move stool through—all of it is important for having a bowel movement," says Hardy. So if these systems are not working properly, your gut motility may take a hit.
How to treat it
Diet and lifestyle can help this type of constipation, but it's not often enough to completely solve the issue. Instead, "treatment that emphasizes pelvic floor therapy, such as biofeedback training to retrain muscle coordination, or behavioral strategies, such as using a foot stool to elevate the feet during a bowel movement, are also helpful," says Dr. Robbins.
Dr. Robbins also says that while laxatives may provide temporary relief, they're not a long-term solution for this type of constipation. Your healthcare provider can help you come up with other relief options.
5. Slow transit constipation
While not part of the ROME IV criteria for constipation, Hardy explains that constipation caused by slow movement of food and stool through the intestines is important to consider. "While this type can overlap with defecation disorders and functional constipation," she explains, "slow transit constipation can also be caused by structural abnormalities like an extra long colon6 or organ prolapses." These types of issues are most often discovered through tests like colonoscopies, endoscopies, or MRI scans.
How to treat it
Hardy explains that for most people with this type of constipation, proper nutrition (such as eating enough high-fiber foods and drinking plenty of fluids) and in some cases, medication, can be effective treatments. Treating other underlying causes, like prolapse, will also require visiting with your healthcare provider.
6. Constipation caused by inadequate food intake
"Not eating enough can exacerbate constipation and deserves its own spotlight," says Hardy, "as the management differs from other subtypes." She explains that with the rise in popularity of restrictive diets, high levels of exercise, and certain weight-loss medications, she's also seeing a lot more constipation in her clients, mainly due to this lack of nutrition.
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"Our intestines move by way of muscle, and we need to ensure that muscle is getting adequate energy to function," she explains. She adds that when people are following extremely restrictive diets, they often struggle to hit their fiber targets, which can slow the bowels and worsen constipation.
How to treat it
Making sure you are properly nourishing your body is the first line of treatment for this type of constipation. If you are having trouble meeting your daily intake goals, visiting a registered dietitian, who can offer guidance and support, is helpful. They can even help you build a meal plan that focuses on fiber and other top nutrient goals. Remember: Food is fuel—not just for your digestive system, but your entire body.
When Hardy works with clients who have constipation, she uses three main strategies to help them poop more regularly: fiber supplements, "constipation superfoods," and a structured bathroom schedule.
For fiber supplements in particular, Hardy says two specific types—psyllium and partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG)—are like sponges. "They hold onto water so [waste] can move through quickly and at the right consistency." But if fiber supplements end up worsening your bloating and constipation, you could be too backed up with stool, in which case she recommends talking with your healthcare provider to help resolve this.
There's also the option of incorporating more "constipation superfoods," i.e., any fiber-filled food that's going to help your bowel move more easily. Hardy says these include:
"When adding these in, don't forget to hydrate!" Hardy recommends. Staying properly hydrated can help prevent the extra fiber from causing gas or bloating.
Finally, Hardy recommends developing a bathroom routine. "About one hour before a bowel movement, your gut motility starts picking up," she explains. She notes that this typically happens in the morning after you first eat. When you first notice the sensation to "go," Hardy recommends taking a moment to do the following:
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Take five deep belly breaths. This stretches your diaphragm down and relaxes your pelvic floor to prepare your body for a bowel movement. She adds that if you can do this in a sumo squat position, it can be even more effective.
Get a stool or a Squatty Potty ($25). These devices help ensure your knees are above your hips, which can help facilitate a bowel movement more easily, says Hardy.
Another strategy that is often overlooked when it comes to constipation is stress management, says Dr. Robbins. "While we don't often realize it, psychological factors, including stress and anxiety, can significantly impact our bowel habits," she explains.
"While occasional constipation can often be managed with lifestyle and dietary changes,persistent or severe constipation may indicate an underlying condition that requires professional evaluation," says Dr. Robbins. She recommends speaking with a healthcare provider if your constipation lasts longer than three weeks, or if it's accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
Severe abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort that doesn't improve when you have a bowel movement.
Blood in the stool.
Unexplained weight loss.
Persistent nausea or vomiting.
Sudden changes in bowel habits.
Hard, painful stools that cause tears or hemorrhoids.
If you've been constipated for longer than three weeks, or if any of the above symptoms accompany your constipation, it's best to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out serious causes of your constipation, such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
Feyen, Bryan J, and Satish S C Rao. “Functional disorders of defecation: evaluation and treatment.” Current treatment options in gastroenterology vol. 10,3 (2007): 221-30. doi:10.1007/s11938-007-0015-1 ↩︎
Frattini, Jared C, and Juan J Nogueras. “Slow transit constipation: a review of a colonic functional disorder.” Clinics in colon and rectal surgery vol. 21,2 (2008): 146-52. doi:10.1055/s-2008-1075864 ↩︎
Black, Christopher J et al. “Efficacy of a low FODMAP diet in irritable bowel syndrome: systematic review and network meta-analysis.” Gut vol. 71,6 (2022): 1117-1126. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2021-325214 ↩︎
Pellissier, S., and B. Bonaz. “The place of stress and emotions in the irritable bowel syndrome.” Vitamins and Hormones, 2017, pp. 327–354, https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.vh.2016.09.005. ↩︎
Milanesi, Rafaela, and Rita Catalina Aquino Caregnato. “Intra-abdominal pressure: an integrative review.” Einstein (Sao Paulo, Brazil) vol. 14,3 (2016): 423-430. doi:10.1590/S1679-45082016RW3088 ↩︎
Southwell, Bridget R. “Colon lengthening slows transit: is this the mechanism underlying redundant colon or slow transit constipation?.” The Journal of physiology vol. 588,Pt 18 (2010): 3343. doi:10.1113/jphysiol.2010.196121 ↩︎
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There are approximately five thousand days in the month of January—and yet somehow February (and its mid-month celebration of *all things love*) always creeps up on you. But don’t panic: The latest TikTok trend has you covered this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re showering your romantic partner, all your besties, or yourself with TLC.
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At 1.2 billion TikTok views and counting, bae baskets are making a major splash, and for good reason. The concept isn’t complicated: Put together a care package of sorts, filled with simple-but-swoon-worthy goodies that feel unique and personal to your recipient. It’s a super thoughtful (not to mention low-effort) way to show your A team you notice and care about the things that bring them joy—and the best part? It can be totally wallet-friendly, and definitely doesn’t seem like you waited until the last possible second to grab them a gift.
To get you inspired to build your own Valentine’s Day gift basket, we scoured the shelves at CVS—because nothing can beat the convenience of CVS if you’re a last-minute shopper—and rounded up eight essentials that anyone on your love list is guaranteed to appreciate and *actually* use. Think: cozy pillows for your favorite homebody, candles and beauty products for the self-care connoisseur, and plenty of sweet treats for, well, everyone.
Bonus: They’re all under $25—which you can brag about to your friends who love to budget, or keep as your best-kept secret (we won’t tell)—and with CVS ExtraCare, you can get additional savings and Extrabucks back on tons of Valentine’s Day finds. So grab a wicker box, a shower caddy, or a canvas bag, and start filling bae baskets for every love in your life (reminder: that includes you).
Start your bae basket with a festive and romantic base (extra points for one that fills up some space). This white, faux fur pillow is a fun seasonal add to any couch, bed, or cozy chair, and serves as an understated invitation to snuggle.
You can never have enough candles, and this soy blend—made with rose and tonka for a warm, sweet, and spicy scent that’ll linger in any space—serves as a reminder to relax and relish in a little self-care. Mood lighting, activated.
Keep the self-care session going strong with healing bath salts that help relax the body and moisturize the skin (and they smell like summertime). The hibiscus and berry extracts form a soothing foam and give the tub a red tint that feels *very* seasonally appropriate. Feeling fancy? Toss in some rose petals to really give your bath-themed basket some extra pizzazz.
There’s no greater love than BFF love—and adding friendship bracelets to your bae basket is a sweet way to acknowledge that. Gift your #1 this pack of eight, dish them out to your closest crew, or stack them all on your own wrist (because, ICYMI, it’s very cool to be your own best pal).
The TikToksphere loves bae baskets almost as much as it loves Stanley tumblers. Skip the investment and nestle this heart-fluttering dupe into your care package for better hydration on Valentine’s Day and beyond. Toss in a couple boxes of Sweethearts Conversation Hearts to round out the theme.
A new tube of lip tint will have all your beauty-loving besties blowing kisses. This long-lasting formula from Maybelline glides on smoothly and leaves a soft, matte finish on your pout—and it comes in 10 buildable and blendable shades. From February 9 to 15, you can get $6 Extrabucks when you buy two tubes, so go ahead and grab one for yourself.
No bae basket is complete without chocolate (yes, even for the S.O.s who claim they don’t like dessert). From coconut, to raspberry velvet, to sugar cookie, there’s a surprise filling for everyone in this box of 14 truffles.
No need to choose between chocolate or gummies this Valentine’s Day (or, um, ever). Instead, pair your Godiva chocolates with this heart-shaped carton of classic Haribo bears. With ExtraCare, you can buy one and get the second box 50 percent off. How sweet is that?
