It has been reported that Singer Mel B recently underwent a procedure known as "vaginal scraping" in an effort to remove any traces of her ex-husband. However, experts warn that this procedure can be both dangerous and unnecessary. It is important to understand that the vagina is self-cleaning and does not require any additional cleaning or scraping. It is recommended to leave the vagina alone and seek medical advice before undergoing any potentially harmful procedures.
1. What is vaginal scraping exactly?
The procedure known as "vaginal scraping" involves the removal of the vaginal walls, followed by the replacement of the tissue. It is marketed as a form of rejuvenation or cleansing, similar to other vaginal treatments. However, as seen in the case of Mel B, some individuals may choose to undergo the procedure for other reasons. It's worth noting that this procedure is not medically recommended and can be potentially dangerous. It is important to consult with a medical professional before considering this or any other vaginal treatment.
2. Your vagina doesn't need to "look better"
Your vagina is perfect as it is and there is no need for procedures like vaginal scraping to make it appear younger or erase your sexual history. These measures can cause harm rather than good. Don't be swayed by false promises of 'freshness'.
3. Vaginal scraping can cause and spread infections
Scraping vaginal tissues can disrupt the vaginal ecosystem, increasing the risk of HPV infection and spreading the virus to other parts of the body such as the vagina and vulva. While HPV may sometimes clear up on its own, it can also lead to health issues like genital warts and cancer.
4. It's not a necessary part of your breakup plan
It may seem like getting your vagina scraped after ending a relationship is a way to move on, but it is not a safe or necessary option. According to Refinery29, the surface cells of the vagina are shed and replaced every four hours, and the epithelium regenerates after 96 hours. This means that your vagina is constantly renewing itself, making scraping unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
5. Vaginal rejuvenation procedures are no joke
Despite the hype and questionable claims surrounding vaginal rejuvenation treatments, they can have serious negative effects. The FDA has reported that these treatments can lead to complications such as scarring, ongoing pain, pain during intercourse, and burns.
6. It puts you at risk of bacterial infections
Scraping away vaginal cells removes the physical barrier that protects the vagina from microbes, according to Dr. Fiona Mattatall, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Calgary, as reported by Refinery29. This barrier is crucial for protecting the vagina from germs and infections.
7. You don't want to mess with your vaginal bacteria
The good bacteria found in the vagina plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment. It produces a substance that prevents bad bacteria from adhering to the vaginal walls, preventing them from penetrating the tissue. Additionally, the good bacteria helps maintain a healthy pH level which is essential for preventing bad odors and infections. By removing vaginal tissue and bacteria, you could inadvertently create a problem where none previously existed.
8. It can cause bleeding
Dr. Fiona Mattatall notes that the potential risks of such a procedure include infection and bleeding, although this is speculative. It is important to consider if these risks outweigh any potential benefits and it's not recommended or safe for all women, just because celebrities might be doing it.
9. It hasn't been tested enough
It is important to ensure the safety of any procedure before undergoing it. However, vaginal cleanses and rejuvenation procedures lack scientific evidence to support their claims. Dr. Jen Gunter, a gynecologist and author of The Vagina Bible, emphasizes that women should not be offered procedures that are untested and have no proven medical value.
10. It's making us feel that there's something wrong with our vaginas
Do men commonly seek out scrapings and rejuvenation procedures for their genitals? No. So there is no need for women to feel pressure to undergo such treatments and procedures. They are not a necessary part of maintaining a healthy vagina.
11. Scraping isn't the only thing to avoid when it comes to your vagina
It is best to avoid any treatments or procedures related to vaginal rejuvenation or cleansing. This also applies to the use of laser devices near the vagina, as they can be harmful. There are only a few instances when laser treatment can be beneficial, such as when there is a medical condition requiring it, like abnormal or precancerous cervical or vaginal tissue or genital warts. This is according to the FDA.
