As a fertility doula with National Baby Co., I often get asked about natural methods to support reproductive health and enhance fertility. Yoni steaming, also known as vaginal steaming, is one of those methods that has been around for much longer than you’d probably think. While it's a popular trend in the wellness community, it’s crucial to approach yoni steams with a clear understanding of both their benefits and potential risks. Let’s get into the real talk about yoni steams and how they might fit into your fertility journey.

What is Yoni Steaming?

Yoni steaming involves sitting over a pot of steaming water infused with healing herbs. The idea is that the steam carries the medicinal properties of the herbs into the vaginal tissues, where it can have therapeutic effects. Historically, this practice has roots in many cultures, from Africa to Central America to Asia, and has been used for everything from fertility to postpartum recovery to menstrual support.

The Benefits of Yoni Steaming for Fertility

While scientific research on yoni steaming is limited, many women swear by its benefits for fertility. Here’s what yoni steams are believed to do:

Increased Circulation: The warmth of the steam is thought to increase blood flow to the pelvic area, which may help improve uterine health and function.
Cleansing and Detoxification: The steam and medicinal properties of the herbs are believed to help cleanse the uterus of old blood and residual buildup, potentially creating a more hospitable environment for conception.
Balancing Hormones: Certain herbs used in yoni steams, like mugwort and red raspberry leaf, can have hormone-balancing effects, which can be beneficial if you’re struggling with irregular cycles or other hormonal imbalances.
Stress Relief: The ritual of yoni steaming can be deeply relaxing, which is important because stress is a known factor that can impact fertility.

The Risks of Yoni Steaming

It’s important to recognize that yoni steaming isn’t for everyone and there are some things you should consider before beginning this practice.

Burns and Irritation: The most obvious risk is burns. If the steam is too hot or you sit too close to the pot, you can easily burn the delicate tissues of your vagina. Always test the temperature of the steam with your hand before getting started.
Disruption of Natural Flora: The vagina is self-cleaning and has a delicate balance of bacteria that help protect against infections. Frequent steaming could disrupt this balance, leading to more harm than good.
Contraindications: Yoni steaming should be avoided during pregnancy, menstruation, or if you have any open wounds, sores, or infections in the vaginal area. If you’re unsure, always consult with a practitioner before trying yoni steaming.

I encourage you to consult with a trained professional to review your personal health history and support needs so that you can feel confident in moving forward in your yoni steaming practice. Our doulas have extensive training and knowledge in vaginal steaming practices and offer virtual consultations as well as in-person visits (depending on your location). National Baby Co can match you with a doula who is trained in yoni steaming.

DIY Yoni Steam Recipes

If you decide to give yoni steaming a try at home, here are some tried and true recipes that can support fertility:

Fertility Boosting Blend

This blend focuses on supporting reproductive health and creating a more balanced and inviting environment for conception.

Mugwort: Known for its cleansing and circulation-boosting properties, mugwort can help to stimulate the uterus and support menstrual health.
Red Raspberry Leaf: Often used for its uterine toning effects, this herb helps strengthen the uterine muscles and regulate menstrual cycles.
Nettle: Rich in vitamins and minerals, nettle nourishes the body, providing essential nutrients that support overall reproductive health.
Rose Petals: Rose is soothing and promotes emotional healing, helping to relieve stress and create a sense of calm, which is crucial when trying to conceive.

Hormone Balancing Steam

This blend is designed to support hormonal balance, which is essential for regulating menstrual cycles and enhancing fertility.

Chamomile: Calming and anti-inflammatory, chamomile soothes the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and balance hormones.
Lavender: Known for its calming and pain-relieving properties, lavender supports relaxation and emotional balance, which can be beneficial for hormonal health.
Rosemary: Rosemary stimulates circulation and promotes cleansing, helping to clear out old blood and toxins from the uterus.
Yarrow: Yarrow is traditionally used for its ability to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding, making it a valuable herb for hormonal balance.

Womb Healing Steam

This blend is focused on healing and restoring the womb, especially after miscarriage, trauma, or surgery.

Calendula: Known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, calendula helps soothe and repair the vaginal tissues.
Basil: Basil has cleansing and antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infections and promote a healthy reproductive system.
Motherwort: Traditionally used for emotional and uterine healing, motherwort can help calm the nervous system and support uterine health.

If you’re looking to keep it simple, just combine all of the herbs listed in each of these recipes into a blend and steam away.

DIY Tips for Safe Yoni Steaming

Yoni steaming doesn’t have to be complicated or involve fancy equipment. The key is to focus on the essentials: a safe, comfortable space, and a few carefully chosen herbs. Don’t get caught up in elaborate setups or the need for every herb under the sun. Simplicity often yields the best results. Start with just a few basic ingredients, and let the process be a gentle, calming ritual rather than something that adds stress or complexity to your routine. Remember, the most important part is how you feel during and after the steam. Keep it simple, keep it safe, and listen to your body.

Use Organic Herbs: Whenever possible, use organic, high-quality herbs to avoid introducing pesticides or other chemicals to your body.
Don’t Overdo It: Limit yoni steaming to once or twice a month, ideally during your follicular phase (after your period ends and before ovulation begins). Over-steaming can lead to irritation.
Comfort is Key: Make sure you’re comfortable throughout the process. Use cushions to support your back and thighs, and wrap a towel or blanket around your nether regions and lap to keep the steam contained.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort, stop immediately. Yoni steaming should be a gentle and nurturing experience, not a painful or uncomfortable one.

Materials Needed for Yoni Steaming

A large pot (2-4 quarts)
A slatted chair, stool, or toilet
A towel or blanket (to drape around yourself)
Organic dried herbs - my favorite is Mountain Rose Herbs.
A heat-resistant surface to place the pot on
A comfortable cushion (optional, for support)
Clean, filtered water

Instructions:

Boil 1-2 quarts of filtered water.
Add 1-2 handfuls of equal amount of herbs to the pot.
Let the herbs steep for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
Place the pot under a slatted chair or in a bowl in your toilet.
Allow the steam to cool slightly before sitting over it, draped in a towel or blanket to trap the steam.
Relax and steam for approximately 15 minutes.

Post-Yoni Steam Recommendations

After your yoni steam, it’s crucial to give your body some time to rest and fully absorb the benefits. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket and lie down for at least 20 minutes, allowing your body to relax and integrate the steam’s effects. Hydrate with a glass of lemon water or herbal tea to support your body’s natural cleansing process. Over the next day, take note of how your body feels—pay attention to any unusual sensations, such as strange odors, discharge, or irritation, as these could indicate an adverse reaction. If you notice anything concerning, discontinue steaming and consult with your yoni steaming practitioner. Avoid any strenuous activities or inserting anything into the vaginal area for the rest of the day to maintain the balance and benefits of the steam. This is a time for gentle self-care, so listen to your body, assess how you’re feeling, and give yourself the space to rest.

Yoni steaming can be a powerful spiritual ritual in your fertility journey, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The benefits and effects will vary for each individual - your body is unique and therefore your yoni steaming experience will also be unique.

At National Baby Co., we’re here to support you in your fertility journey. Whether you’re exploring natural methods like yoni steaming or considering other options, our team of fertility doulas is here to guide you with evidence-based, holistic care. Let’s work together to create the best possible environment for conception.

Yoni Steams for Healthy Fertility