Females

• Shower every day
• Wear clean underwear every day
• Wear cotton underwear (synthetic ones make you sweat more and can cause a very uncomfortable infection)
• Wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom to avoid infection
• Clean the vaginal opening first and anus second
• If feces go into your vagina, you may get an infection
• Don’t use talcum, perfume or other fragrances near or on your genitals, which are very sensitive (some people react more than others)
• Get to know your body – use a mirror to see your genitals and pay attention to any changes
• Go to a clinic if you have any questions or concerns

Males

• Shower every day
• Wear clean underwear every day
• Don’t use dirty jock-straps
• Get to know your body – use a mirror to see your genitals and pay attention to any changes
• Go to a clinic if you have any questions or concerns

People With Disabilities

If you don’t have full sensation around your genitals, then a mirror may become your best friend.

Using a mirror, you can look at your genitals regularly and watch out for changes. What others may experience as burning or itching will probably be seen as red and/or swollen. If you have a personal care attendant, ask for help to check. If you don’t want your attendant to look at your genitals, talk about alternatives with a parent, doctor, or nurse.