Publication: Real-World Practices and Attitudes Towards Intimate Self- Care: Results From An International Women's Survey
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Issued Date
2021-12-01
Resource Type
ISSN
24687847
Other identifier(s)
2-s2.0-85114120076
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Mahidol University
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SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction. Vol.50, No.10 (2021)
Suggested Citation
Prof Filippo Murina, Alessandra Graziottin, Odile Bagot, Nick Panay, Manopchai Thamkhantho, Steven W. Shaw Real-World Practices and Attitudes Towards Intimate Self- Care: Results From An International Women's Survey. Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction. Vol.50, No.10 (2021). doi:10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102192 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/77540
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Title
Real-World Practices and Attitudes Towards Intimate Self- Care: Results From An International Women's Survey
Abstract
Objective: Vulvovaginal health is important to women's overall health, fertility, sexuality, self-perception, self-confidence and intimacy. It is important to identify the existing perceptions and levels of knowledge about intimate care practices from women in different countries, and with different cultures, religions, and perspectives to help women overcome barriers to optimal intimate care. Methods: An anonymous online survey about general and intimate hygiene routines/habits was distributed across 10 countries (England, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Russia, China, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand). The sample consisted of around 10,000 women (aged 18 to 60 years) recruited through an online panel. Results: The survey indicates that for many women, cleaning the intimate area is not just about hygiene, but also about taking care of themselves. Intimate care practices, performed daily, varies widely among the countries (from 38% to 91%). Italy, Philippines Portugal, Russia and Thailand were the countries with higher percentage. Intimate care is mainly associated with hygiene and health benefit, but interestingly women engage in intimate care more often with age. Most women worldwide are comfortable talking about female genitalia but still consider it a taboo topic, particularly among younger generations. Asian countries continue to carry negative connotations. Conclusions: This survey is the first of its kind for number of women involved in this research and for multi-cultural design. Women perceive that practicing intimate care positively impacts their health and wellbeing. However, intimate care is still not one of the most frequent daily routines for many women