The Racist Legacy of "Feminine Care" Products

This article addresses the complex and insidious racist (and misogynist) history of vulvar and vaginal douches, sprays, and washes, as well as racial disparities in their use today. Most of these products are unnecessary and potentially harmful. For example,

“Research has shown that douching may be associated with higher exposures to diethyl phthalate, a type of industrial chemical found in many consumer products. It may also be linked to health risks, such as infertility, vaginal infections and sexually transmitted diseases.”

It also discusses how the ads for these products have targeted the Black community and other communities of color.