A Survey on the External Genital Hygiene Behavior of Women

The aim of this study was to explore the status and the knowledge of external genital hygiene behaviors of females. A cross-sectional design with sampling in P city (N=155) was used. Questionnaires were utilized to measure the variables in multiple regression. Most participants practice external genital hygiene behaviors, and experienced vaginal discharge on underwear at all ages. For knowledge, the highest percentage of right answer was “Wash after urination with tissue (91.0%)” which was followed by “Must wash inside labia majora using exclusive moisturized tissue or bidet during the mense (82.6)”, “Feminine cleanser is better than water and soap in vaginal practices (76.1%).” Factors affecting obfuscating symptoms of infections were vaginal practices education, non-wiping vulva after the urine and skintight cloth wearing. This study is significant in that it figured out the status of external genital hygiene behavior of Korean women while there is no standardized education method is set and there are huge personal, social and cultural differences. Therefore, further studies on external genital hygiene behavior are suggested to prepare standardized education.