Is douching dangerous when pregnant and what will it do to the baby?

Douching is not recommended during pregnancy and can be harmful to the baby.

Risks of douching during pregnancy include:

* Infection: Douching can introduce bacteria into the vagina, which can lead to infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. These infections can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

* Preterm birth: Douching has been linked to an increased risk of preterm birth. This is thought to be due to the fact that douching can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to inflammation and uterine contractions.

* Miscarriage: Douching has also been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. This is thought to be due to the fact that douching can damage the cervix, which can make it more likely for a miscarriage to occur.

In addition to these risks, douching can also cause other problems during pregnancy, such as:

* Vaginal dryness: Douching can remove the natural oils that lubricate the vagina, which can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort.

* Itching and burning: Douching can also cause itching and burning in the vagina.

* Painful intercourse: Douching can make intercourse painful by causing the vagina to become dry and irritated.

If you are pregnant, it is important to avoid douching. If you have any concerns about your vaginal health, talk to your doctor.