Vaginal hygiene device

A vaginal hygiene device with a silicone handle and flexible filaments addresses the risks of bacterial contamination and irritation by providing a safe, effective, and gentle cleaning solution for vaginal health.

WO2025149692A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-07-17ESCRIVÁ MARTÍ, MA CONCEPCIÓN
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/ES2024/070796
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-01-08
Filing Date
2024-12-19
Publication Date
2025-07-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing vaginal hygiene devices, particularly those using sponges, pose risks of bacterial contamination, irritation, and abrasion due to moisture retention and rough surfaces, which can lead to infections and discomfort.

Method used

A vaginal hygiene device with an elongated handle made of certified medical silicone and flexible filaments for cleaning, designed to minimize bacterial absorption and reduce friction, featuring a biocompatible and easy-to-clean design.

Benefits of technology

The device ensures safe and effective vaginal cleaning by reducing the risk of infections and irritation, maintaining vaginal health through gentle cleaning without moisture retention or bacterial absorption.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a vaginal hygiene device for improving vaginal health by minimising the risk of infection. Specifically, the device is formed by an elongate handle and a cylindrical cleaning head formed by flexible filaments, both made of medically certified silicone. This design allows gentle and effective cleaning of the vaginal cavity using vertical and rotational movements and can be used with mild soaps or gels. The device does not retain liquid or bacteria, is easy to clean and is not cytotoxic or irritating to skin. The invention is intended for the health and feminine well-being industry, providing a safe and practical solution for daily vaginal hygiene and vaginal hygiene in special circumstances such as during menstruation or after sexual intercourse.
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Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Qualification

[0003] Vaginal hygiene device

[0004] Background

[0005] It's essential to emphasize the importance of vaginal health for a woman's overall well-being. The vagina is a delicate environment that requires care and attention to prevent infections, irritations, and other health problems. Proper vaginal hygiene plays a critical role in preventing disease and promoting women's comfort and confidence.

[0006] The devices currently on the market for vaginal hygiene are mostly irrigation devices, as shown in multiple documents. Examples of this type can be seen in patent publication number ES 2115509 by the applicant, Manuel Martínez Raga, or more recently, the irrigator included in patent W0030070301 by the owner, Abbot Research Group, Inc. (US). Furthermore, cleansing may include products such as special soaps or wipes. Excessive use of cleansing products can alter the natural balance of vaginal flora and increase the risk of irritation or infection. Individual needs may vary, and some women may require specific approaches based on their health and medical conditions. There are also special considerations, such as the menstrual period or use after sexual intercourse.It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a gynecologist, for personalized guidance.

[0007] Closer to the field of the invention, the use of a sponge equipped with a handle to clean the cavity is known, as stated in the patent with publication number US 20060069342 A1 by the inventor John Bichsel et al.

[0008] Materials such as sponges have been used both as a sole means and in combination with irrigation systems, whether bulb syringes, or water supplied from a pump or network. The disadvantage of this type of material is that when reused, they can contain germs, bacteria, or other contaminants that could be introduced into the vagina during cleansing. Sponges can retain moisture, creating an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi. This could increase the risk of infection. Additionally, especially if they are rough, they can cause irritation and abrasion of the vaginal mucosa, causing discomfort and possibly damage.

[0009] There are no known technical solutions that resolve the problem described in an advantageous way like the invention proposed.

[0010] Object

[0011] Provide simple and efficient means for vaginal hygiene by using a device that is safe for direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes, minimizing the risk of allergies or irritation in the delicate genital area. Avoid the absorption of liquids or the retention of bacteria in the device. It must be easy to clean to ensure proper hygiene.

[0012] Description of the invention

[0013] The recommended vaginal hygiene device features an elongated body that forms a handle made of certified medical silicone. A plurality of flexible filaments emerge radially from the distal portion of the handle, each of which defines a volume close to a cylinder, which we refer to as the cleaning head. Similar to the handle, the filaments are made of certified medical silicone. A detailed biocompatibility study concludes that the vaginal hygiene device is neither cytotoxic nor a skin irritant.

[0014] For clarity, the device's use consists of inserting the end containing the filaments into the vaginal cavity using gentle vertical and rotational movements. At the physician's discretion, the procedure may be combined with the use of mild soaps or specific gels. After use, the device can be washed and dried and stored properly for future use.

[0015] The use of a brush head made of flexible filaments improves cleaning and prevents excessive friction from irritating the vaginal cavity. The flexible filaments have a "pulling" function, making it easier to clean the vaginal cavity. Description of the drawings

[0016] For a better understanding of what is described in this document, some drawings are attached which, by way of example, represent a list of the figures of the proposed invention.

[0017] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the vaginal hygiene device, showing the handle (1), the cleaning head (2) and its filaments (3).

[0018] Figure 2 shows a top view of the cleaning head and its filaments (3).

[0019] Description of a preferred embodiment

[0020] A preferred embodiment is cited as an example, the materials used in its manufacture, as well as the application methods and all the accessory details that may be presented, being independent of the object of the invention, as long as they do not affect its essentiality.

[0021] The preferred description object of this report collects the characteristics of the invention, it comprises a handle (1) for handling certified medical silicone material. At the end of this handle emerge a plurality of filaments (2) of a flexible nature that make up the cleaning head (2) whose volume is close to a cylinder. In this embodiment the measurements are 11 centimeters for the length of the handle, the cleaning head being 7.50 centimeters high and 2 centimeters in diameter, the filaments are made of certified medical silicone.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Vaginal hygiene device characterized by having an elongated body that forms a handle (1) made of certified medical silicone material, from the distal portion of the handle a plurality of filaments (3) of a flexible nature and the same material emerge radially, these defining the cleaning head (2) whose length forms a volume close to a cylinder.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Disposable gynecological washing rod

    CN202427041U

  • Feminine cleaning device

    US20210169280A1

  • Means and method of vaginal treatment

    US2127094A

  • Medicament and swab type applicators

    US3818911A