WHAT THE HECK IS VAGINAL STEAMING?

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Vaginal steaming is also known as Yoni steaming,  Peristeam, V-steaming, Chai-yok (hip baths), and Jwahun therapy. It is a method of delivering medicines (herbs) via steam to the vagina, perineum, and womb areas. This therapy has been found to be practiced in numerous cultures such as South Korea, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Turkey, Latvia, Sweden, Italy, Germany, Eritrea, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Panama, Guatemala, Mexico, Navajo Nation, Palau, Papua New Guinea, and Hawaii.

One part of this therapy that interested me was how far back vaginal steaming and fumigation dated in early classical Chinese Medicine literature. Chinese medical manuscripts, dictionaries, and Materia Medica’s had mentioned the use of this therapy for women. I have read numerous articles dissing this age-old therapy saying things like it is dangerous and unnecessary. I feel that there is a lack of education about just how powerful this therapy can be for women and all the benefits that come from steaming. 

Worldwide, the most common use of vaginal steaming is for postpartum care as well as a host of other gynecological issues such as...

  • Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)

  • Menstrual Clots

  • Amenorrhea (no period)

  • Heavy Periods

  • Short Menstrual Cycles

  • Long Menstrual Cycles

  • Irregular Periods

  • Long Periods

  • Short Periods

  • Irregular Discharge

  • Bacterial Vaginosis

  • Yeast Infections

  • Urinary Tract Infections

  • Unexplained Infertility

  • Short Luteal Phase

  • Anovulation (no ovulation)

  • Blocked Fallopian Tubes

  • Scar Tissue Inside the Uterus

  • Cervical Scar Tissue

  • Cervical Polyps

  • Ovarian Cysts

  • Endometriosis

  • PCOS

  • Fibroids

  • Brown or black menses

  • Infertility

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Back Pain

  • Difficult Urination

  • PMS 

  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

  • Sexual Trauma

  • Postpartum care

  • Hemorrhoids

  • Surgery Recovery

  • Miscarriage Recovery


As seen above vaginal steaming is good for a number of issues but it is important to remember that not every woman can steam. Here are just a few times when you CAN’T steam.

  • During pregnancy

  • While menstruating

  • After IVF/IUI transfer

  • Endometrial ablation

  • Tubal cauterization

5 REASONS WHY STEAMING WORKS

Women who have tried steaming have reported the following benefits...

  1. Steaming can increase circulation which may improve uterine function.  The steam causes vasodilation which increases circulation to the entire area as well as the uterine blood vessels that connect to the vaginal canal, cervix, and uterus.

  2. Steaming may increase the flow of Qi (energy) by stimulating the Conception Vessel and the acupuncture point CV-1. This acupuncture point regulates the lower yin orifices (genitalia, urethra, anus) which is good for all genito-urinary issues, genital pain/itching, retention of urine, uterine prolapse, amenorrhea, irregular menses, hemorrhoids, anal prolapse.

  3. Steaming may trigger oxytocin release by stimulating triggers that communicate with the brain. Studies have shown that vaginal touch triggers the brain to release oxytocin also known as the “cuddle hormone”.

  4. Steaming may increase the efficiency of naturally cleaning the womb. Regular steaming sessions can help to remove old residue in their menstrual flow. Women have reported large clots, tissue masses, tar-like menses, even dried blood chips and scar tissue from previous uterine surgeries or trauma after steaming. Once all this is removed the periods are found to be healthier with fresh, red, oxygenated blood. 

  5. Steaming may reduce susceptibility to infections by draining out any irregular discharge that can be described as thick, yellow, or green. This type of discharge can be a breeding ground for bacteria, yeast, and viruses. By steaming the vagina it is better able to maintain healthy flora and pH balance.  


HOW TO STEAM

First I am going to say if you want to try steaming the best way is to find a Vaginal Steam Facilitator, Peristeam Hydrotherapist or an Acupuncture Steam Therapist. The way to find a certified person would be through the website steamychick.com. Steamy Chick certifies their practitioners which is important when first steaming. You want someone who will know what type of steam and herbs are best for you...that means the length of your steam, the frequency in which you should steam,  and which herbs to choose. Once you know this information then they can get you set up to do steaming on your own in the comfort of your home. 

Have any questions about whether or not steaming is right for you? You can DM to set up an appointment time (in-person or online) so I can answer your questions or get you steaming right away.

Healthfully yours,


KT