We are taught at a young age that the Vagina is self cleaning. However we are not told about the myriad of other issues, conditions and experiences we will encounter as our bodies grow and change. We are given few and mostly ineffective solutions that wash, cleanse and even eradicate all signs of our sexuality, be it from the lack of inclusive sex education to the misguided products causing more harm than help. Truth is, there are many gentle yet effective ways we can care for our vulvovaginal health, but sadly they are seldom discussed.
Today and everyday we address the antiquated “Fem Care” industry by offering better solutions to the chemical laden, often offensive products we were given to mask sexual health issues rather than make them better.
As you take a stroll down these oftentimes antiquated aisles, you’ll see the perpetuation of cultural stigmas via product language and even function. Newsflash: vaginas aren't supposed to smell like a ‘summer breeze’ and ‘lavender field.’ Yet, many traditional vulvovaginal health products promote the idea that we should be ashamed of our natural scent, putting the emphasis on masking rather than healing. Not to mention the harsh ingredients that go into these products do more harm than good, if they do any good at all. Adding in these artificial fragranced and detergents can easily throw off your delicate vaginal microbiome, leading to the common vulvovaginal infections and irritation.
READ MORE: All Natural Ingredients, All the Time
These products also have a history of overlooking, and even completely isolating, many groups of people. As we know, there are a vast array of gender and sexual identities and these identities are unique to all individuals. However, disappointingly, the current Fem Care industry predominately only caters and markets to cis-het women. Whether it be the outwardly feminine packaging or the non-inclusive language, many individuals may not feel safe or comfortable using these products.
Dissecting Fem Care and reframing how we think about vulvovaginal health is an essential part advancing the space and creating better solutions, more inclusive care and destigmatizing the common conditions and experiences so many of us endure. For us, this means using only all-natural and organic ingredients, such as Tea Tree for its antibacterial properties and Calendula for its anti-fungal properties, that WITH your body to help it heal naturally. We also use language and visuals that are inclusive to all unique bodies, sexualities, and gender identities.
At Momotaro Apotheca we are encouraging our friends, other companies and communities to look inward and think how we can be more intentional with the way we talk about our bodies, treat our friends, and communicate to our partners. Because vulvovaginal health is for everyone.
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Momotaro Apotheca and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on Momotaro Apotheca is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition.