Vaginal Steaming 101: What You Need to Know

Vaginal steaming, also known as yoni steaming, is a practice that has gained popularity in recent years, with benefits for reproductive health, menstrual cycles, and overall wellness. If you're curious about this practice, it's important to get the facts before deciding whether it's right for you.

What Is Vaginal Steaming?

Vaginal steaming involves sitting or squatting over a bowl or chair filled with steaming herbal water. The idea is that the steam—infused with herbs like mugwort, rosemary, and lavender—will penetrate the vaginal tissues, promoting circulation, overall relaxation and balance in the reproductive organs.

This practice is rooted in traditional medicine and has been used for centuries in cultures around the world, from Central America to Asia. Additionally, there are acupuncture points located on the perineum that are excellent for reducing stress and grounding yourself. Steaming affects these points promoting a sense of calm.

The Benefits of Vaginal Steaming

The benefits of Vaginal Steaming May Include:

1. Regulating Menstrual Cycles
   Some believe that the heat and herbs used in vaginal steaming can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce irregular periods, and alleviate menstrual cramps.

2. Improving Fertility
   Some also claim that vaginal steaming promotes blood flow to the reproductive organs, which could potentially improve fertility. The increased circulation is said to help with the shedding of old uterine lining, making it easier for a fertilized egg to implant.

3. Promoting Vaginal Health
   Steaming is often said to help balance the vaginal flora, clear away bacteria, and reduce issues like vaginal dryness or yeast infections.

4. Postpartum Recovery
   Some women use vaginal steaming after childbirth, believing it can aid in the healing of the vaginal area and improve the recovery process.

5. Promoting a Healthy Pelvic Floor

   Steaming can help relax a very tense pelvic floor by relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. In addition to pelvic floor physiotherapy, yoga and exercises to reduce muscle tension, vaginal steaming can also support reducing pelvic floor tension.

The Risks of Vaginal Steaming

It is important to avoid steaming while dealing with any type of active infection, if you have open sores or blisters, if you are bleeding while on your period or if you have an IUD.

1. Burns or Scalding
   The most immediate concern is the risk of burns from the hot steam. The vaginal tissues are delicate and sensitive, and too much heat can cause burns or irritation, leading to long-term damage. An easy way to minimize this risk is of course, to immediately move away from the steam if it feels too hot or uncomfortable.

How do I steam?

1. Set Your Intention

   Steaming allows you to relax, take time for yourself and consciously connect with your pelvic bowl. Use this opportunity to journal, listen to a meditation or relaxing music, but above all, put your phone down and stop the scroll!

2. Boil Water

   Bring three cups of water to a boil - use either a pot on the stove top or a tea kettle.

3. Use a Nourishing Herbal Blend

   Use your favourite herbal blend and put it in a wide bowl that you will use exclusively for steaming. These herbal blends may be specifically created for steaming or you can use any pregnancy-related tea blend as the herbs are very similar. AVOID adding essential oils to the bowl as they will irritate the delicate vaginal tissues.

4. Pour Boiled Water Over Herbs

   Combine the boiled water and herbs in the bowl. Cover the bowl with a lid or plate and allow the herbs to steep.

5. Time to Steam!

   Wait a few minutes for the water to cool slightly, then kneel over the bowl using your yoni stool, draping yourself over a yoga ball or whatever feels most comfortable for you. Steam for 15-20 minutes.

Is Vaginal Steaming Right for You?

Vaginal steaming is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its benefits and risks vary depending on the individual. If you’re considering trying vaginal steaming, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider first—especially if you have any existing health concerns, such as a history of infections, or are pregnant.

Conclusion

Vaginal steaming may be beneficial for relaxation and promoting overall pelvic wellness. While the practice comes with potential risks that should not be overlooked, ultimately, your health and safety should always be your top priority, and it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider before introducing any new practices into your routine.

Have you tried vaginal steaming? What was your experience? Drop a comment below or share your thoughts on how you maintain your vaginal health!