vaginal steam guide

What your vagina really wants is your undivided attention. Seriously.

That’s what all the PMS drama, cramps, cysts, endometriosis, and irregular cycles are really about. When menstrual cycle dysfunction, “unexplained” infertility, or pelvic pathologies arise, it’s your body’s way of trying to get your attention to an underlying imbalance.

You’re living life in a gorgeous, resilient cyclical body under patriarchal colonial capitalism, where the primary survival tactic we’re taught is to ignore the very visceral fact that we might be bleeding or growing another human from scratch or transitioning in or out of our reproductive years at any given point in time and carry on like it’s business as usual. We’re taught to celebrate the ability to push our menstrual cycles aside to maintain our work schedules and outside responsibilities.

Instead of ignoring or overriding your cycle and symptoms, vaginal steaming—also known as yoni steaming, womb steaming, pelvic steaming, and many other names around the world—works with your body’s natural rhythm in a way that’s gentle and feels good.

Here are some basic safety guidelines including when it’s safe to steam, when and how to setup your steam, and what to expect from a vaginal steam practice.

safety guidelines

hard contraindications

Do not steam when...

- you are currently bleeding/on your period (flow or spotting)

- you've had spontaneous or breakthrough (mid-cycle) bleeding in the last 3 months

- your menstrual cycles are shorter than 20 days

- you are pregnant (before 38 weeks) or might be pregnant

- you've had pelvic or abdominal surgery in the last 6 weeks

- you have a medical issue that contraindicates exposure to heat or increased circulation

*In some of these instances it may be safe/beneficial to steam. Guidance from an experienced steam therapist is recommended. Click here to book a 1:1 Womb Wisdom Awakening session.

soft contraindications

It is safe to steam, but there are other considerations to take into account when…

- you have a burning itch. Adding heat may make the burning sensation more intense. An herbal sitz bath is a nice alternative to receive the plant medicine without adding excess heat.

- you've had a tubal ligation/coagulation to prevent pregnancy. Vaginal steaming can clear scar tissue and blockages, which may reverse the contraceptive effects of this procedure. Want to steam? Use another form of birth control if you are not desiring pregnancy at this time.

- you have an Assure birth control coil. Steaming can clear scar tissue and blockages, which may reverse the contraceptive effects of this device. Want to steam? Use another form of birth control if you are not desiring pregnancy at this time.

- you have a birth control patch or arm implant, which thickens the endometrial lining to prevent implantation. Steaming can reduce the thickness of the lining. Want to steam? Use another form of birth control if you are not desiring pregnancy at this time.

- you've had a uterine ablation (intentional scarring of the interior of the uterus) to stop heavy or spontaneous bleeding. Steaming can clear scar tissue, potentially reversing the procedure. However, steam users also report improvement with heavy/spontaneous bleeding.

- you've had a fibroid embolization to restrict blood flow to fibroids. Vaginal steaming can clear scar tissue and blockages, and increase circulation, potentially reversing the procedure. However, steam users also report improvement with fibroids.

sensitivities

Be aware of these additional safety guidelines if…

- you have a bleeding sensitivity such as short cycles (27 days or less), prone to spotting, or spontaneous/breakthrough (mid-cycle) bleeding. Steam for no more than 10 minutes with a mild setup (no added heat, cloak ok if desired).

- you have a NuvaRing. Remove the ring before steaming.

- you have an IUD. Steam for 10 minutes with a mild setup (no added heat, no cloak).

- you have signs of excess heat in the body (night sweats, hot flashes, current or history of infections, sensitivity to heat, or sensation of heat radiating from within). Steam for 10 minutes with a mild setup (no added heat, no cloak).

- you are age 12 or under. Steam for 10 minutes with a mild setup (no added heat, no cloak).

first aid for heavy bleeding

Although uncommon when the above guidelines around contraindications and sensitivities are followed, it's recommended to have Yunnan Baiyao Pills or Shepherd's Purse Tincture on hand as first aid in case of heavy bleeding.

If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking a pad in less than an hour), discontinue steaming, take yunnan baiyao or shepherd’s purse tincture per the directions on the package, and go on bed rest for 24-48 hours. Discontinue use once bleeding has subsided (usually 1-2 doses).

Bleeding that persists or worsens may require medical attention. If mild symptoms occur, have someone to help monitor the situation in case the symptoms progress and emergency care is needed. If any severe symptoms occur, seek emergency care immediately.

Mild symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and profuse sweating. Severe symptoms include rapid and/or shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, blue lips or fingernails, pale skin, rapid heart rate, confusion, weak body or pulse, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness.

vaginal steam herbs

Not all bodies and cycles are the same, and different herbs have different properties.

Life By The Moon has 4 different steam herb blends, so you can choose the blend that suits your body best. SHOP HERBS HERE

Did you know you can use your herbs twice? Place herbs in a tea ball/strainer to steep, remove herbs from the pot of water before steaming, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to use again.

No herbs? You can DIY with stuff from your kitchen like ¼ tsp mineral salts (such as Redmond Real Salt), 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, a piece of citrus peel, or water only.

***DO NOT use essential oils for vaginal steaming. Only fresh or dried whole-plant materials.

steam setup

mild steam setup

A mild (no added heat) setup is ideal for your first time steaming, as well as anyone with heat, bleeding, age, or medical sensitivities (see "sensitivities" above).

1. Prepare your herbs

In a metal or ceramic-coated pot (no non-stick coatings, please!), boil 3 cups of water. Remove pot from the heat, and add herbs per the package instructions. Cover and steep off-heat for 10 minutes.

2. Prepare your space

Create a vaginal steam ritual that feels sacred or special in whatever way you choose. Make your space cozy and warm, dim the lights, light a candle, play music… or keep it super simple! Creating an experience you find enjoyable is womb embodiment.

3. Set your intention

What are you offering to your womb space? What do you want to receive from the steam? What are you ready to release? What are you welcoming in or creating? This is your intention.

It is universal law that where attention goes, energy flows, and your attention and intention are powerful catalysts for healing.

4. Steam

Place the pot beneath the steam stool/sauna and remove the lid. Sit on the stool and use your wrap around you and the steam pot to create a tent.

​No steam throne? No problem. Wrap the pot in a towel (no burns please!), then kneel over it on one knee (the "Captain Morgan" pose) or straddle the pot on both knees, or on hands/forearms and knees. Place towels on the floor to give your knees some padding, then use your wrap to create a steam tent.

You should feel the steam on your vulva and vaginal opening (not on your belly, and not on your butt unless you are steaming for hemorrhoids) and the temperature feel pleasant, so adjust your position as needed. Steam should feel like a warm bath.

Receive steam for 10 minutes.

​5. Clean up

Empty the steam water outside to return to the earth, or discard into the toilet. Clean the pot with hot water and soap.

​

advanced steam setup

An advanced setup (with added heat while steaming) can be used as long as the heat feels pleasant and you do not have any heat, bleeding, age, or medical sensitivities.

***DO NOT STEAM with added heat if you don't have a steam throne! Steaming with added heat from a hot plate or slow cooker without a stool or sauna box is a fire/burn safety issue.

Prepare the herbs as above. When ready to steam, place the pot on a hotplate beneath your steam seat with heat set to low. A small slow cooker will also work.

You should feel the steam on your vulva and vaginal opening (not on your belly, and not on your butt unless you are steaming for hemorrhoids) and the temperature feel pleasant, so adjust your position as needed. Steam should feel like a warm bath.

Receive steam for up to 30 minutes.

when to steam

Frequency

You can steam one time each week (e.g. every monday night, or with the new/quarter/full/last quarter moon), skipping the week of your bleed, OR

​Steam one time the day after your bleed ends (no fresh blood for 24 hours), and one time 3 days before you expect your next bleed.

Time of day

Vaginal steaming promotes relaxation, so you may find the best time to steam is before bed. Otherwise, pick a time of day that works best for you. Set a reminder in your phone or mark your calendar, whatever you find helpful to make sure your steam happens.

to cloak, or not to cloak?

A cloak or heavy robe is worn while vaginal steaming to keep your body warm, increase circulation, and induce a sweat. This is an additional way to aid the effects of the steam.

HOWEVER if you have a heat, age, or medical sensitivity (see "sensitivities" above), use a lightweight wrap while steaming to keep steam localized during your session without creating excess heat or dehydrating your body. A bedsheet, lightweight towel, or maxi skirt would all work. If it feels too hot or you begin to sweat, ditch the wrap.

while you steam

The loving attention you bring to your vaginal steaming ritual is the medicine your body truly wants. It may be tempting to distract yourself with screens or other activities during a steam, particularly if you are used to being busy or are having an emotional response to the practice.

Here are some ways you can harness your attention and remain present during your steam:

Hold your intention

Recall your intention—-what does your body want to receive from your vaginal steam ritual today? What are you bringing to the experience, or offering to your Self?

​Hold this intention in your mind and heart while you steam. Notice how your body, emotions, and spirit respond.

Womb meditation

Bring your hands to your low belly, joining the tips of your thumbs and tips of index fingers together to make a triangle.

​Close your eyes (or keep them open and soften the focus). Inhale for a count of 8 sending the breath to your womb, then exhale for a count of 8.

​Receive the warmth of your hands and the energy of your breath.

​Notice any body sensations or emotions arising. If you find it challenging to be with what is happening, take a deep breath. Remember you are in a safe place right now, and you can support any physical or emotional releases simply by remaining present and breathing into it. Meet your Self where you are right now.

Hips-to-heart breathing

Bring one hand to your heart and one hand to your low belly.

​Close your eyes, or keep them open and soften the focus.

​Imagine you can see your breath, as a color or a light. Your breath is a conduit for communication throughout your body. ​

​Inhale for a count of 4, watching your breath travel from your pelvic bowl up to your heart center. hold here for 4, as the breath receives heart energy to bring back to the hips. Then exhale for a count of 4, watching the breath travel back down into the pelvis. Hold here for 4, hips receiving heart energy and sending pelvic energy back in return. Inhale, hold, exhale, hold. Repeat.

​Notice sensations arising in the body, emotional energy, or thoughts in the mind. Breathe and stay with them. Let the breath and your attention witness what needs to be witness, feel what needs to be felt, and move what needs to move.

Intimate massage

Alone or with a partner. Let your hands explore your body and receive the healing benefits of your own touch, or your partner’s touch. Belly and breast massage during your steam will facilitate movement in the body and can help alleviate cycle-related pain/soreness. Let it be fun, sexy, warm, slow, supportive… whatever you like.

what to expect after vaginal steaming

After your steam session, you may notice…

Cleansing effects

- The urge to urinate. Go to the bathroom before steaming!​

- Increased period clots and release of old residue

- Increased period cramps as old residue releases. Use pads or period panties during your moon cycle, and avoid blocking the vagina with tampons or menstrual cup.

- Increased dry cramps (between periods) as old residue is released

- Increased irregular discharge or odor. Steaming softens and releases stagnant mucus. This will subside over time with steaming.

- Itching caused by release of mucus or infection​

  • Rinse with a peri bottle after using the bathroom and throughout the day as needed to remove irritating mucus from skin.

  • Use steam herbs to make a sitz bath to help skin irritation—steep herbs, then add herb water to a warm, shallow bath. Sit 10-15 minutes.

  • “Yin care” herbs from an acupuncturist/herbalist to address chronic infection

  • ***If itching is NOT accompanied by discharge, this may be an indication that the herbs/setup you are using are too drying or heating. Try switching to THE COOLING BLEND

- Bumps or rash may be a sign of sensitivity or allergic reaction. Try steaming with water only to compare. 

- Emotional release

  • Emotions are energy in motion. Steaming facilitates circulation/movement of physical and emotional energy, and it is common to have an emotional response to steaming.

  • Feel your feelings in your body to digest and integrate them.

  • Have a support network (friends, therapist, healers, counselor, etc.) in place to support your deeper, more subtle layers of emotional healing and integration.

- Shorter menstrual cycles

  • Your cycles may initially shorten or stay the same. If your cycle becomes shorter than 28 days, try:

  1. THE GENTLE BLEND, which has hemostatic herbs to slow bleeding.

  2. Increase steaming to 2x daily on days 19/20/21 and the day after your period ends.

  3. Increase proper period care, especially rest, and review any triggers of fatigue. Notice if there is a pattern in what brings on bleeding earlier than expected.

  • If your periods continue to get shorter or steaming brings the onset of bleeding:

  1. Reduce herbs to ½ dose

  2. Reduce steam schedule to only day 20 and 1 day after your period ends

  3. Reduce steam duration to 5 minutes/session

  4. Increase additional recommendations and proper period care

- Longer menstrual cycles

  • This is ok as long as your cycle is 28-30 days (or lengthening in that direction)

  • If your cycle becomes longer than 30 days...

  1. Rule out pregnancy

  2. Re-evaluate herbs used—make sure you are not steaming with hemostatic herbs! These slow/stop bleeding. Adjust as needed.

- Brown discharge after steaming

- Abnormal bleeding (onset of fresh spotting or bleeding)

  • Stop steaming and get extra rest to help bleeding subside

  • Seek a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or herbalist for herbs to stop bleeding

  • Have Yunnan Baiyao Pills or Shepherd's Purse Tincture on hand as first aid in case of heavy bleeding. Use per the directions on the package, and discontinue use once bleeding has subsided (usually 1-2 doses).

  • This may be a sign of uterine fatigue, please take note of fatigue or stress triggers and reduce as possible.

- Bowel movement or gas

  • This is a sign of energetic movement in the pelvis, which is good!

  • Diarrhea may be a sign of excess heat or too much downward flowing energy. Try using a ½ dose of herbs or water only for your next steam. Mild (no heat) setup and no cloak will also reduce heat.

- Sexual arousal during or after steaming

- Skin raw or stripped

  • Reduce heat with a mild setup and no cloak

  • Try steaming with water only

Positive side benefits

- Relaxation

- Deep sleep

- Increased vaginal nectar (clear, pleasant-smelling fertile mucus)

- Heightened libido and sexual sensation

- Heightened fertility (ovulation)

- Improved circulation

- Decreased PMS symptoms

- Water retention disbursement

- Emotional balance or release

- Clear, glowing skin

- Tightened and lifted vaginal canal

- Scar tissue softening

- May prevent/treat ingrown hairs