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In the United States, the messages Black women receive about vaginal hygiene are often rooted in misogynoir. As a result, Black women across multiple generations may engage in extensive vaginal hygiene practices that are harmful to their health as a means of decreasing the potential for dehumanization or confirming racist stereotypes. The purpose of the current qualitative study is to explore the messages four generations of Black women (n = 12) received about genital hygiene and grooming and the sociocultural factors that influence these messages. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the semi-structured interview data. The following themes were identified: (1) a culture of silence, (2) knowledge acquisition, (3) pressure to maintain Black cleanliness standards, and (4) gendered racist messaging. Subthemes emerged within the knowledge acquisition theme, including learning through word-of-mouth, observation, deduction, trial and error, and direct messaging. Overall, themes and subthemes were consistent across generations; however, some differences were discussed. Participants highlighted the importance of intergenerational conversations in promoting safe vaginal hygiene practices. Recommendations for sexuality educators and healthcare professionals are discussed.
Thorpe et al. (Mon,) studied this question.