Feminine hygiene is an interesting topic. The main reason why I say that is because some people can’t actually agree on what it is. While some say that it strictly has to do with what’s going on with our vagina (and vulva) when we’re on our cycle, others say that it has to do with “all things considered” as it relates to cleanliness — and to a certain degree health — down below.
To keep everyone as happy as possible (this time…LOL), I decided to share some tips that will “scratch the itch” on both sides of the fence by providing some all-natural ways to take care of “her” by way of going the essential oils route.
For the record, these aren’t oils that I’ve merely read about before. These are the ones that I’ve tried out myself and can personally vouch for. Ones that, so long as you dilute them first (a few drops of oil in eight ounces of distilled water can make it a great vaginal wash or spray) and take the “less is more” (along with the, if your symptoms don’t go away, please see your doctor as soon as possible) approach, you can end up feeling really good and super fresh on a monthly basis. Ready?
1. Oregano Oil for Vaginal Odor
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If you’re looking for the kind of oil that is powerful when it comes to the antioxidants that are in it as well as its anti-inflammatory properties, oregano oil is that one. Some people use it to improve their gut health. Others rely on it to lower their cholesterol levels. Word on the street is it can also aid in helping to shed some pounds.
What makes it ideal when it comes to vaginal health is, not only does it contain potential antibacterial compounds that can help to heal a yeast infection, it can help to get rid of vaginal odor too.
2. Rose Oil Reduces Vaginal Inflammation
Let me tell it, everyone should have at least one bottle of rose oil in their house. There are plenty of science-based studies to back the fact that it’s great when it comes to treating symptoms that are related to depression and anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and stress. Rose oil is also awesome when it comes to reducing pain — this includes any that is period-related.
However, because it’s also an oil that is loaded with antibacterial and antifungal properties, if the blood and/or discharge that you’re dealing with due to your cycle is irritating your vulva (the skin outside of your vagina), rose oil can help to soothe the irritation and inflammation (especially if you’re someone who mostly wears pads).
3. Emu Oil to Soothe Vulvar Skin
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Speaking of oils that soothe — emu oil is another gem. From a beauty standpoint, it will help to deeply hydrate your skin, slow down the signs of aging (because Black CAN crack if you’re not careful), decrease the appearance of acne scars, and lighten age spots. If you’re a new mom, another bonus when it comes to this particular oil is it can make your nipples feel less irritated if you happen to be breastfeeding.
As far as your vulvar skin goes, emu oil provides the same benefits to it that it does to the rest of your body — and since moisturized skin is less irritated, it definitely gives a calming effect. Also, since it helps to stimulate collagen production in your system, it can help your vulvar skin to also appear plumper and more youthful-looking over time.
4. Clove Oil Decreases Period-Related Discomfort
I’m gonna tell you right here and right now that if you have a toothache, run out and get some clove oil. It will help to deaden the pain almost immediately. Aside from that, the properties of clove are associated with relieving respiratory conditions, bringing relief to skin that suffers from chronic itching and it can help to decrease muscular pain.
And since your uterus is a muscular organ that contracts in order to shed its lining when you’re on your cycle, that’s why it can be beneficial for you when you’ve got cramps and abdominal discomfort. Simply mix a few drops with your favorite carrier oil, warm it up for a few seconds in the microwave, and then give the lower part of your tummy a nice massage with the oil. You should feel your cramps easing up within 20 minutes or so.
5. Frankincense Oil Stimulates Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs
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This essential oil is bomb on a few different levels. It helps to reduce stress. It can put you in a better mood. Its powerful astringent properties are great at killing fungi and bacteria. It helps to fade stretch marks and surgery scars. It can also help you to get a good night’s rest thanks to its ability to open up your nasal passages and regulate your body temperature.
When you’re on your period, your body will adore it because not only can it help to balance out your hormone levels, but it also increases blood flow to your reproductive organs which can assist with shortening the time of your cycle and make your cramps less intense until your period ends.
6. Rosemary Oil for Vaginal Infections
My skin adores some rosemary oil. Ever since I’ve been applying it to my skin at night, it has evened out my complexion, helped to keep period pimples at bay, and given me a natural glow. It’s also been a reliable oil when it comes to sealing the ends of my hair. In fact, it has a pretty solid reputation for helping to restore hair loss if you're consistent with using it.
If it seems like clockwork that you end up experiencing some sort of vaginal infection when you’re on or right after you come off of your cycle, that’s because it could be causing an imbalance of the yeast and bacteria that’s naturally inside of your vagina during that time of the month. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in the oil can help to heal these kinds of vaginal infections. Not only that but some studies say that rosemary oil can speed up the healing process of trichomoniasis too (speak with your doctor about that one, though).
7. Lavender Oil for Bacterial Infections
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From an aromatherapy standpoint, lavender oil is one of the most popular ones when it comes to reducing anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation, and helping you to get a better night’s rest. Something else that might surprise you is there are studies to support that it can help to decrease symptoms that are associated with diabetes, plus it can help to soothe the discomfort that’s associated with having a headache.
Since it’s also a strong antifungal type of oil, you can also use lavender to help treat bacterial infections. When it’s a top ingredient in a homemade vaginal wash, it can help to get rid of the discharge that’s associated with common bacterial infections.
8. Tea Tree Oil for Yeast Infections
If you want a zit to go away, pretty much overnight, something that will do it is tea tree oil. What I especially like about it is the fact that although it’s potent as hell, it doesn’t dry out my skin (when I use it as a spot treatment) while it’s working. Some other benefits that come with it include the fact that its super potent (and I’m not exaggerating here) antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties also make it a top-notch when it comes to being a reliable ingredient for all-natural sanitizer, DIY deodorant, and getting rid of nail fungus.
It's alsothat one when it comes to treating yeast infections. That’s because its antimicrobial and antifungal properties help to prevent the overgrowth of yeast as well as bring relief when it comes to incessant itching and irritated vaginal and vulvar skin.
9. Thyme Oil Helps to Heal Candida Vaginitis
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If you’re someone who likes to cook with fresh thyme, good for you because, whether you realize it or not, you’re doing some great things for your body. Due to the potent antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that are in thyme, it’s great at fighting breakouts, suppressing coughs, and helping your food last for longer periods of time. Since thyme is also high in vitamins A and C as well as copper, iron, and manganese, it’s a good idea to consume it if you’re looking to boost your immune system.
However, what trips me out the most about thyme/thyme oil is there is scientific intel to support that if you combine it with garlic, it’s just as effective as clotrimazole vaginal cream at treating candida vaginitis (vaginal irritation that has an overgrowth of candida in it). How freakin’ impressive is that?
10. Peppermint Oil Is a Vaginal pH Balancer
Let’s wrap this all up with peppermint oil. The menthol in this oil makes it a super bomb oil for treating bad breath. However, it’s also oftentimes used to speed up the healing process of the common cold, nausea, and migraine-related discomfort. Your scalp will also like peppermint because it can reduce itchiness and increase blood flow to your hair follicles which can increase hair growth. Plus, if you like to work out, it can soothe joint and muscle-related pain.
As far as your vagina goes, since peppermint oil acts as a powerful fungicide, it can keep your vagina at its proper pH balance (check out “Sis, This Is How To Keep Your Vagina's pH Balanced”); that’s because it kills harmful bacteria that can throw it off. It’s also an oil that can keep vaginal odor under control whether it’s during your cycle or not.
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There you have it — 10 essential oils that are great for when you’re on your cycle or if you want to keep common vaginal issues under control without the need for (a lot of) medication. Just make sure that you use it externally unless you run it by your physician first. Douching, even when it’s with an essential oil, can still do more harm than good, more times than not, because it can throw your vagina’s pH balance off — and that can cause all hell to break loose.
Also, make sure that you go with a reputable brand of essential oil (check out a list of them via The Sprucehere). Believe you me, a lot of people give essential oils the side-eye, thinking that they’re not effective when really they just purchased a cheap (including cheap quality) brand.
Beyond all of this, ENJOY! Again, I can personally vouch for all of these and my vagina and vulvar have only been at (more) peace because of ‘em.
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While speaking to xoNecole, Eva shares that she’s a lot like the beloved 1994 character in many ways. “Lyric is so me. She's the odd flower. A flower nonetheless, but definitely not a peony,” she tells us.
“She's not the average flower you see presented, and so she reminds me of myself. I'm a sunflower, beautiful, but different. And what I loved about her character then, and even more so now, is that she was very sure of herself.
"Sure of what she wanted in life and okay to sacrifice her moments right now, to get what she knew she deserved later. And that is me. I'm not an instant gratification kind of a person. I am a long game. I'm not a sprinter, I'm a marathon.
America first fell in love with Eva when she graced our screens on cycle 3 of America’s Next Top Model in 2004, which she emerged as the winner. Since then, she's ventured into different avenues, from acting on various TV series like House of Payne to starring on Real Housewives of Atlanta.
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Eva praises her castmates and the play’s producer, Je’Caryous for her positive experience. “You know what? Je’Caryous fuels my audacity car daily, ‘cause I consider myself an extremely audacious woman, and I believe in what I know, even if no one else knows it, because God gave it to me. So I know what I know. That is who Je’Caryous is.”
But the mom of three isn’t the only one in the family who enjoys acting. Eva reveals her daughter Marley has also caught the acting bug.
“It is the most adorable thing you can ever see. She’s got a part in her school play. She's in her chorus, and she loves it,” she says. “I don't know if she loves it, because it's like, mommy does it, so maybe I should do it, but there is something about her.”
Overall, Eva hopes that her contribution to the role and the play as a whole serves as motivation for others to reach for the stars.
“I want them to walk out with hope. I want them to re-vision their dreams. Whatever they were. Whatever they are. To re-see them and then have that thing inside of them say, ‘You know what? I'm going to do that. Whatever dream you put on the back burner, go pick it up.
"Whatever dream you've accomplished, make a new dream, but continue to reach for the stars. Continue to reach for what is beyond what people say we can do, especially as [a] Black collective but especially as Black women. When it comes to us and who we are and what we accept and what we're worth, it's not about having seen it before. It's about knowing that I deserve it.”
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
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Thinking about them kinda-sorta inspired this piece because they caused me to reflect on the times when some of my clients have come to me, semi-freaking out, and it was because their thoughts about someone had gone beyond “Hey, she’s pretty” or “Hey, he looks good.” Instead, they were starting to fantasize about certain folks, and they weren’t sure what to do about it, especially when some of those fantasies were transpiring while they were engaging in sex with someone else.
You know, it’s been reported that somewhere around 50 percent of people do indeed have fantasies about other people while having sex with another person. And that is definitely a high enough number to tackle some things about the topic here.
If you’re someone who fantasizes about other individuals, especially sexually, here’s some intel into why that could be the case, along with when it gets to the point and place where you might want to consider actually doing something about it.
What’s a Fantasy and What Exactly Causes Them?
GiphyWhenever you think of the word “fantasy,” what immediately comes to your mind?
Personally, what I find to be interesting is the fact that the dictionary says that there are actually a lot of things that can be considered a fantasy: your imagination, hallucinations, visions, ingenious inventions, illusions — I mean, there is even a genre of fiction that falls into the fantasy category. However, when it comes to what we’re going to discuss today, a psychological term for fantasy is “an imagined or conjured up sequence fulfilling a psychological need; daydream.”
And yes, before we get to the end of all of this, that definition is going to answer quite a few questions as it pertains to the topic of this particular piece. But first, more about the origin story of fantasies.
Apparently famed neurologist, Sigmund Freud spent some time analyzing fantasies and came to the conclusion that, more than anything else, a fantasy represents something that is either a suppressed urge or desire and when you stop to think about what you imagine, what your visions are, what you may long to invent — that certainly tracks. However, something that you should also keep in mind about fantasies is that, oftentimes, they are rooted in few boundaries and can even go well beyond what is considered to be reality (which is something that is based on facts and truth).
Oh, something else that needs to be kept in mind about fantasies is that they are typically relied on as a mental form of escape from something or someone (bookmark that).
And now that fantasies are more clearly defined, if your immediate question is, “Is it wrong to fantasize?” — no, I certainly don’t think that. What I do believe, based on what a fantasy is, though, is if you are fantasizing a lot about a particular person, place, thing or idea, it would be a good idea to ponder why that is the case — why is that a suppressed desire for you, why are you using that as a mental escape and perhaps, the most important question of all, does your fantasy come with any limits?
Now let’s build on top of this…
Now What Causes Folks to Fantasize About Other People?
GiphyAs I was doing more research on the topic of fantasies, I came across an article entitled, “What Happens In Our Brains When We Fantasize About Someone.” The author of it started the piece out by talking about a cool connection that she made with someone on a plane, only for her to find herself fantasizing about him once they parted ways. As she went deeper into her story, she mentioned a word that definitely needs to be shared here: heuristics.
If you’re not familiar with it, heuristics is simply a mental shortcut. For instance, if you find yourself needing to make a quick decision (check out “Before You Make A Life-Altering Decision, Read This.”), you may rely on heuristics to do it (even if it’s subconsciously). The challenge with that is oftentimes heuristics will only provide you with a limited amount of data and information, and relying only on that could cause you to not make the best choice, if you’re not careful. And boy, when heuristics jump into your fantasy space — well, something that immediately comes to my mind is celebrity culture.
Ain’t it wild how people will be on social media, speaking so confidently, about someone—or someone’s relationship—as if they personally know them (when they absolutely don’t)? I mean, just because someone is attractive or you’ve seen them carry themselves well in an interview or two, that doesn’t automatically mean that they are the ideal person or that they are someone to set your own dating standards by. If you’re not careful, though, heuristics and fantasies may encourage you to think otherwise.
That’s because the combo will try and get your brain to jump to all sorts of conclusions and, if you don’t keep that in check, it could result in you making premature, counterproductive, or even straight-up reckless decisions — because remember, a fantasy tends to be about suppressing an urge or desire.
Honestly, whether you are in a relationship or not, if you are fantasizing about a particular individual, understanding why you are doing that should definitely be explored.
However, if you are with someone and you’re fantasizing about someone else, you really shouldn’t ignore what is transpiring because, although by definition, there’s a good chance that whatever and whomever you are fantasizing about will never come to pass, the fact that it’s taking up some of your mental and emotional space, that needs to be acknowledged. Because if there is something that you want or need, and you seem to believe that your fantasies are better at supplying that for you than the reality of your relationship, why is that?
Let’s keep going…
What Does (or Could) It Mean If You Fantasize About Someone Else During Sex?
GiphyIt’s pretty common that a random song will come to mind whenever I’m writing an article. Today? It was Guy’s “My Fantasy.” Then a sitcom did — King of Queens, and the episode when Doug and Carrie were talking about his sexual fantasies. The song is about images that the fellas randomly have about beautiful women. The episode was about Carrie wanting to dictate to Doug what and whom he could fantasize about because some of his sexual fantasies made her feel uncomfortable or intimidated.
And both of these are a pretty solid intro into whether there is something wrong with sexually fantasizing about someone, especially while having sex with someone else. Well, before getting into all of that, I think another article that I read on the topic brings up a pretty good point — that it’s important to think about where your fantasies are coming from: your imagination, things you see on social media, porn that you may have watched, people who you actually know…and if it’s the latter, is it someone from your past or someone from your present?
Yeah, knowing the source of your fantasies can definitely help you to understand how “deep” into your fantasies you might be.
What I mean by that is, seeing a beautiful man one time and randomly thinking about what it would be like to have sex with him on some beach vacation is quite different than constantly thinking about your ex, the sex you used to have with him and then fantasizing about it For one thing, the beautiful guy, you will probably never have access to. That ex, though? Well, at the very least, that is a bit more realistic, right?
Then there’s the fact that, again, a fantasy is a suppressed urge or desire. When it comes to the beautiful man, is it his looks that you long for, or is it something deeper? And that ex of yours? Lawd, now why, when you have your own man in your own bed, is your ex “scratching some sort of itch”? Because we all know what they say — “he’s your ex for a reason,” so why is he creeping up into your intimacy space now that the relationship is over? Is something unresolved?
Are there sexual needs that he met that your current partner isn’t (check out “You Love Him. You Prefer Sex With Your Ex. What Should You Do?”)? Is something currently transpiring in your current relationship that you are using fantasies about your ex to escape from?
You see, although when it comes to the topic of fantasizing about others when you’re having sex with someone else might seem like the a cut-and-dried, “Don’t do it, end of discussion” — as someone who works with couples for a living, I think the bigger concern isn’t if another guy comes into your mind during sex with your partner…it’s more about WHY is that happening to begin with. Because if you need to escape from where you are, if you can’t be present with your partner, something is definitely up.
When Should You Be Concerned About the Fantasies You Are Having?
GiphyDuring the last several months of breaking up (because we all know that sometimes breaking up is a process) with the last boyfriend whom I will have in this lifetime, I recall fantasizing about other people while having sex with him. It’s because I really wasn’t attracted to or interested in him, sexually, anymore — but I was a bit fearful of what it would mean to let the entire relationship go.
And boy, is that a huge red flag because I wasn’t fantasizing about some random famous person one time during sex — I was relying on images, my imagination, and previous experiences with other people to literally get me through the act. NOT. GOOD.
Y’all, one of the greatest and most profound forms of communication and connection between two people is sexual intimacy, and so, when it transpires, it really should only be about the two of them. That said, should you freak out over a thought about someone who creeps up into your mind every once in a while? Chile, more people have that happen than they will ever admit out loud.
On the other hand, should you worry if you’re like I was? I’ll put it this way — you should definitely be concerned because the last thing that you should be feeling during sex with someone is like you are suppressing what you need and/or that you want to escape from the moments that you are experiencing with them.
And yet, if that is indeed the case, though, what should you do?
Start with doing some sex journaling. Write down your fantasies, the sources of them, and why you are leaning on them in this season (check out “The Art Of Sex Journaling (And Why You Should Do It)”). If they are tied to unrealistic situations, be real with yourself about that. If they are rooted in potential possibilities, do some journaling about how much you are “feeding into” that reality and what you think would be the wisest way to move forward, both for your sake as well as your relationship.
Talk to your partner. Each relationship is different, and so, while I’m not going to recommend that everyone just blurt out that they’ve been thinking about having sex with their co-worker or college sweetheart while having sex with their partner, I do think that the suppressed urges and desires (in general) should be mentioned. Sometimes, fantasies are birthed out of boredom (check out “If You're Not Having Great Sex, This Is (Probably) Why” and “Common Sex Problems Couples Have (& How To Fix 'Em)”) and doing something like creating a sex bucket list (check out “This Is How To Create The Best Kind Of ‘Sex Bucket List’”) can breathe new life into your bedroom.
Plus, sharing some of your deepest thoughts, feelings, and needs (in a kind, thoughtful, and mature way) can cultivate more emotional intimacy with your partner, and that can definitely be a good thing.
Consider seeing a sex therapist. If, after doing both of these things, the fantasies seem to be getting stronger and louder, you might need to make an appointment with a reputable sex therapist (check out “Have You Ever Wondered If You Should See A Sex Therapist?”). They may be able to help you to “connect some dots” about what’s going on that you wouldn’t have considered without their help, because sex therapists are trained in helping individuals sort out the mental and emotional sides of intimacy, not just the physical ones.
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Are fantasies bad? They aren’t. However, when it comes to sexual ones, a quote by Benjamin Franklin absolutely comes to mind: “If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins.”
And that, right there, should be a guiding message for how you should process the fantasies that you do have.
Amen? Sho’ you right.
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