VAGINAL BIOLOGY AND THE DOUCHE.

Abstract

To the Editor:— The idea that the vagina needs regular cleansing douches seems to rest on psychological rather than physiological grounds. From our knowledge of the anatomic and physiological facts it is clear that the vagina is well adapted to take care of itself. In fact, douching, especially with highly medicated solutions, may upset the balance. Over the years, there has evolved the notion that feminine hygiene can be achieved only by artificial means. The purpose of this paper is to challenge that concept and indicate when the vaginal douche can be of value. The vaginal walls are lined by squamous epithelium. At the menarche, under the influence of estrogen, the epithelium becomes many layers thick and remains so until after the menopause, when there is a reduction in the number of layers. In adult women prior to the menopause, the vaginal walls are arranged in longitudinal columns and transverse