Posts in category: Women’s Health

Vaginal steaming has become so popular that some wellness gurus are even claiming that all women should steam. What should you know if you want to start vaginal steaming for the first time? Discover the basics of vaginal steaming—safety, benefits, herbs, and practical guidance for performing it at home included. 

What is vaginal steaming?

Vaginal steaming, also known as yoni steaming, is an ancient practice deeply rooted in holistic healing traditions. It involves sitting over a pot of steaming water infused with medicinal herbs. The steam carries the herbal properties to the vaginal and pelvic tissues, promoting relaxation and potential healing benefits.

Like sitz baths, vaginal steaming allows herbs to have a local and targeted effect on the pelvic area. Both practices are great to add and prioritize in your (overly busy!) postpartum day-to-day.

Summary

Vaginal steaming is an ancient practice that uses herbal steam to promote relaxation and potential healing benefits to the vaginal and pelvic tissues.

Is vaginal steaming safe?

Despite its long history, safety concerns regarding vaginal steaming persist. It’s crucial to understand potential risks, such as burns or infections, especially if not performed correctly (Robert, 2019).

Other potential risks include vaginal microbiome disruption, vaginal pH changes, and allergies or reactions to herbs used for steaming. More research is needed.

Medical experts caution against overuse and advise consulting with a healthcare provider before starting a steaming regimen.

Vaginal steaming after birth

Being cautious in the early postpartum is especially important. Most practitioners advise waiting at least 4 weeks postpartum before steaming for the first time after birth. Some consider that your postpartum lochia should stop completely before steaming.

Others, however, consider that steaming can be performed very early into the postpartum (weeks or even days in) to promote healing. Allegedly, some traditional cultures recommend vaginal steaming in the early postpartum to reduce excessive bleeding, but not much information on these practices is available.

Vaginal steaming in pregnancy

Vaginal steaming should be avoided in pregnancy. Steaming can affect the cervix and the whole pelvic area, increasing blood flow and potentially increasing the risk of miscarriage.

Summary

While vaginal steaming has potential benefits, put safety first to prevent the risk of burns or infections. Steam with caution in the early postpartum period.

Vaginal steaming at home

Performing vaginal steaming at home can be a simple practice and ritual. Begin by selecting quality herbs known for their medicinal properties, such as calendula or rosemary. Create a comfortable space, using a specially designed steaming stool or a simple setup with a bowl and blanket.

Sit over the bowl, letting the steam reach your yoni and pelvic area. Take time to relax and connect with your body during the steaming session.

To practice safe steaming, keep the following precautions in mind:

• Use clean gear
• Make sure the steam is not too hot
• Stop if you feel any pain or discomfort
• Gradually increase the duration of your steaming sessions–start with 5-10 minutes and don’t steam for over 30 minutes
• Select your herbs carefully
• Don’t steam during pregnancy
• Avoid steaming if you are actively bleeding or have a medical condition involving infection or weak immunity

Practice caution, especially during the postpartum period. Consult with a knowledgeable practitioner before starting vaginal steaming after childbirth. Begin with shorter sessions and lower temperatures, gradually increasing intensity as your body heals.

Summary: 

Performing vaginal steaming at home involves selecting quality herbs and creating a comfortable space and dedicated time for the steaming session.

Vaginal steaming benefits

1) Promotes Healing

Herbal steam may help improve circulation to the pelvic area, promoting natural healing processes.

2) Reduces Inflammation & Pain

Limited studies suggest that vaginal steaming may help alleviate discomfort and inflammation associated with infection, menstrual cramps, or other gynecological issues (Liu et al., 2014).

3) May Help with Prolapse

Anecdotally, vaginal steaming is purported to help with pelvic organ prolapse.

4) Increases Blood Flow & Detoxification

Steam may enhance blood flow to the pelvic region, supporting detoxification and nutrient delivery to tissues.

5) Supports Hormonal Balance

While more research is needed, some women report improved hormonal balance and menstrual regularity with regular steaming.

6) Boosts Mood & Energy

The relaxing nature of vaginal steaming can promote a sense of well-being and vitality.

Summary

Vaginal steaming offers potential benefits including promoting healing, reducing inflammation and pain, increasing blood flow and detoxification, supporting hormonal balance, and boosting mood and energy.

Vaginal steaming for fertility

While there’s limited scientific evidence directly linking vaginal steaming to fertility enhancement, some women use it as part of their holistic approach to reproductive health. The practice may help support overall pelvic health, balance hormones, and reduce stress—all of which can positively impact fertility.

Summary

Direct evidence linking vaginal steaming to improved fertility is limited, but it may offer benefits as part of a holistic approach.

Herbs for vaginal steaming

• Yarrow: Helps regulate menstrual flow and tones the reproductive organs; anti-inflammatory.
• Lavender: Calming and soothing, lavender promotes relaxation and stress relief.
• Rosemary: Improves circulation and has antiseptic properties.
• Calendula: Soothes irritation and promotes healing of vaginal tissues.
• Witch Hazel: Astringent and anti-inflammatory, witch hazel can reduce swelling and discomfort.
• St. John’s Wort: Anti-inflammatory, promotes wound healing; boosts mood.
• Plantain: Soothes itching and inflammation, particularly helpful for vaginal infections.
• Burdock Root: Supports liver function and detoxification, aiding in hormonal balance; Anti-inflammatory.
• Echinacea: Boosts immune function and may help prevent infections.
• Angelica: Common in traditional Chinese vaginal steaming blends, Angelica helps promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation (Liu et al., 2014)
• Chamomille: soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory.
  
• Medicinal Mushrooms: yes, you can steam with mushrooms too! Chaga and reishi support overall health and immune function; several studies suggest they carry benefits for vaginal health (Rokos et al., 2023; Fordjour, 2023).

Experiment with different combinations of herbs to find what works best for your body and specific concerns. Always use organic, high-quality herbs, and be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of vaginal steaming. Aim for regular sessions, but listen to your body and adjust the frequency as needed. Consult with a qualified provider if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.

Takeaway

Vaginal steaming, also known as yoni steaming, is an essential part of women’s health in many traditional cultures. It involves sitting over a pot of steam infused with medicinal herbs to promote relaxation and potential healing.

While it may offer benefits, safety is a priority, especially to avoid burns or infections. If you’re just starting, go for short sessions. Keep the steam at a comfortable temperature. Select a couple of safe and tested herbs, and use clean equipment. Avoid steaming during pregnancy or active bleeding. Consider seeking guidance for specific health conditions and herbal combinations.