Does Vaginal Douching Cause Cervical Cancer?

Douching is known to increase the risk of vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis. This is because it disrupts the vagina's natural PH balance, allowing "bad" bacteria to outnumber "good" bacteria. Does vaginal douching also increase the risk of cervical cancer? Here's what all women should know about this potential risk of douching.

Is There a Link Between Vaginal Douching and Cervical Cancer?

Women who douche have an 86 percent greater chance of experiencing cervical cancer than those who do not douche, according to the Wisconsin Alliance for Women's Health. There are a couple of reasons why experts believe the link between douching and cancer exists.

Vaginal douching can make it more difficult to recognize and detect sexually transmitted diseases - including HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer if it's not diagnosed early enough. Douching may prevent some women from noticing any signs that there may be of an HPV infection or precancerous cervical cell changes. Some women may even douche too soon before a Pap test, which can interfere with test results.

Other medical experts believe that douching may interfere with the immune system and, ultimately, the body's ability to get rid of an HPV infection. However, it is important to note that there is no medical research which has been done to confirm or disprove this theory.

Does How Often You Douche Determine Your Cancer Risk?

Research has shown that how often a woman douches is linked to her risk of cervical cancer. The risk is higher among women who douche more often. One study showed that the risk of invasive cervical cancer was higher among women who douched five or more times monthly, according to Epidemiologic Reviews. Slightly fewer instances of cervical cancer were seen among women who douched less often.

While women are not recommended to use vaginal douches at all, those who do feel the need to douche should aim to do it fewer times a month. Also be sure to avoid douching 48 hours before a Pap test, as it can cause false results. Finally it is important to be aware of the signs of cervical cancer. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms to watch out for include irregular vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, pelvic pain, irregular menstrual periods, changes in vaginal discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to seek medical attention right away.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. It should not replace the diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. Anyone who is concerned about their health should speak to a licensed healthcare professional.

Sources:

Epidemiologic Reviews (Oxford Journals), "Vaginal Douching: Evidence for Risks or Benefits to Women's Health."

University of Maryland Medical Center, "Cervical cancer - Symptoms."

Wisconsin Alliance for Women's Health, "Cervical Health Awareness."