COLD & FLU
WOUND CARE
FEMININE CARE
COLD & FLU
14 Q&AsThese viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touch an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs or sneezes) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).
A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is good to use a preparation that target different types and classes of germs.
Viruses are tiny particles that rely on human or animal cells for their survival, so they cannot last very long outside the body. They cause illnesses by invading healthy cells and multiplying.
Bacteria are single cell organisms usually found in and on our bodies. Some bacteria are harmless – and can even be good for us – and some cause infections.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle has scientific research on its germ killing activity against germs that can cause sore throats1-3. With a 30-second gargle, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle kill germs2. Individual response varies*.
For the same reasons, other viral infections like flu should not be treated with antibiotics either6.
If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections*.
* For further information, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Since most sore throats are caused by germs5, there are steps that you can take to prevent getting an infection:
- Avoid sharing utensils with people who are sick.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap.
- Practice proper hand and throat hygiene by using an antiseptic hand wash and gargle, such as POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle to kill germs and prevent passing on germs within the family or community2.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands as germs can enter your body this way and make you sick.
- Stay away from people who are ill, as germs can spread.
No, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle does not stain the teeth. The natural brown colour is due to Povidone-Iodine, the active ingredient of POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle. The product retains the germ killing effect of iodine but unlike iodine, it is generally non-staining.3
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) preparations do not stain the skin, fingernails, hair, or natural fibre either.3 If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Germs that cause sore throats can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching something that has the germs on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).
When a loved one suffers from sore throat, flu or a cold, practicing proper throat and oral hygiene like gargling with POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) helps. This lessens the chances of other family members getting it too by killing the germs before they have a chance to act.
The active ingredient in BETADINE®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a golden brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin3.
If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
FEMININE CARE
9 Q&AsIdentify the cause – suspect infection by looking out for vaginal symptoms such as discharge with abnormal colour or amount.
Check for foreign objects like tampons or condoms after intimate sessions.
Wear cotton undergarments to encourage airflow and allow your vaginal area to breathe.
Don’t:
Use fragrant body washes and soaps as it can disrupt the pH balance of your vagina.
Bacterial infections are the most common cause, accounting for up to 50% of the cases. They happen when there are changes in the types and amounts of bacteria normally found in the vagina.
Fungal infections like candida albicans are probably the next most common cause. Fungal infections are often called vaginal yeast infections.
Other possible causes of vaginal irritation include:
Tight nylon underwear that doesn’t provide good ventilation, resulting in perspiration and lack of air circulation
The use of contraceptives
The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of other infections
The use of vaginal deodorants
The lack of personal hygiene
Pregnant and lactating mothers are encouraged to avoid using the POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche due to the potential risks to the fetus/baby. There is a possible chance that the fetus/baby may be at risk of reversible hypothyroidism. Even though hypothyroidism is reversible, it might still lead to future metabolism conditions.
Women who suffer from hypothyroidism should also avoid using the
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche.
Povidone-iodine, which is the active ingredient in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche, is naturally golden brown in colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche products can also be washed off even if they get into contact with your clothes. If you accidentally get some on natural fibers, it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, it can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately wipe up spills on plastic floors.
WOUND CARE
8 Q&AsAntiseptics are used as a treatment to cleanse cuts, scratches, burns, grazes or other minor injuries where the skin is broken, or as a preventive measure before piercing the skin (e.g. an injection). For this very reason, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) has a wide range of antiseptic formats for your different needs.
If you accidentally get Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) on natural fibers it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Additionally, the use of tap water to cleanse the wound would not be recommended in a country where a constant supply of potable drinking water is not available.
The Do's and Don'ts of Vaginal Hygiene
Your vagina has an efficient, perfectly balanced way of keeping itself clean and healthy. It does this through vaginal secretions, as well as a mix of ‘good’ bacteria and carefully balanced pH levels. But this doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do to maintain good hygiene.
Here’s your essential guide to the dos and don’ts of vaginal hygiene.
Do wash every day
Washing your intimate area every day can help to clean away sweat. What’s more, you’ll feel fresh and clean down there.
Don’t use overly perfumed soaps, gels or wipes
Your intimate area has a delicate balance of pH levels and bacteria, but this can be disrupted when chemicals are introduced into the area. This is why it’s a good idea to avoid overly perfumed wipes, sprays, powders, soaps and gels when washing your intimate areas. Instead, opt for washes and foams that are specially designed for your intimate area.
Do wash more often during your period
It’s good practice to wash the area around your vagina more often when you’re having a period. Things can get messier down there at this time, so it can help you to feel fresher and cleaner if you wash with warm water a couple of times a day.
Do use a soft, fluffy towel to dry off
Be gentle with yourself when drying off after a shower or an intimate wash. A lovely fluffy towel is just the ticket, as anything rougher could cause irritation or dryness.
However, it is important to get your intimate area properly dry after washing, so be gentle but thorough with the towel.
Don’t get too hung up on odour
It’s 100% normal for your vagina to have a scent. Unless it’s overly strong or unpleasant - in which case you should make an appointment with your doctor - then there’s really nothing for you to worry about.
If you’re self-conscious about vaginal odour, it’s tempting to overcompensate with powerfully fragranced products. However, these soaps and wipes could potentially cause irritation and other problems. The best way to keep odours to a minimum is to wash regularly and dry thoroughly.
Do wipe from front to back
This is another crucial tip for intimate feminine hygiene. When you go to the toilet, always wipe from front to back with your toilet paper. Do it the other way around and you could risk spreading fecal bacteria from your anus to your vagina and urethra. This can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) and many other problems. If you don’t feel clean enough after going to the toilet, have a gentle wash of the area with warm water.
Do wear breathable fabrics down there
Unfortunately, fashionable underwear can sometimes cause a few problems when it comes to feminine hygiene. Overly tight-fitting thongs, tights and skinny jeans can restrict the flow of air around your genitals, as well as trapping in heat and moisture. This is made even worse when your underwear, tights or trousers are made from synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester.
These fabrics trap in moisture, which can create the perfect environment for infections such as thrush. Along with this common yeast infection, you could also risk getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) such as cystitis. You may even experience problems with a strong or unpleasant odour after several hours spent wearing skintight leggings.
The good news is that there are lots of things you can do to avoid these uncomfortable feminine health issues. For starters, you should aim to wear cotton underwear and natural fabrics where possible. Cotton is a wonderful natural material in that it is breathable, which means that the air can flow in this sensitive area. Excess moisture from sweat and normal vaginal discharge can evaporate. Even if your underwear simply has a cotton crotch insert, this is much better than pants made purely of nylon, polyester or even spandex.
You can also give your vagina room to breathe by limiting the amount of time you spend wearing tight clothing. Opt for loose pyjama bottoms and flowing skirts around the house, rotating them with your skinny jeans and tighter clothing. This will give your vagina a much-needed break, and hopefully limit the chances of creating an environment where infections like thrush can thrive.
Do use a condom when having sex
This last tip may not be related to washing or vaginal care, but it is just as crucial for feminine hygiene. Unprotected sex can cause unwanted bacteria and even viruses to enter the vagina, which can lead to other infections. Just a handful of the many sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) you could catch in this way include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Herpes and even HIV or Syphilis. If you use a condom every time you have sex, even if you’re using other forms of contraception, you can reduce your risk of catching these STIs.
Sources:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/keeping-your-vagina-clean-and-healthy/
https://tampax.co.uk/en-gb/tampax-articles/period-advice/7-intimate-hygiene-tips
https://uk.betadine.com/blog/where-does-the-word-vagina-come-from
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/you-dont-need-fancy-products-for-good-feminine-hygiene
https://www.healthline.com/health/wipe-front-to-back
https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/9320438/signs-skinny-jeans-harmful-vagina/
https://patient.info/sexual-health/vaginal-discharge-female-discharge/bacterial-vaginosis
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