There are cultural believes that VD is necessary for good hygiene. Other motives for douching are to clean the vagina after the end of menses or before and/or after sexual intercourse, to prevent or ameliorate an odor, to prevent or treat vaginal symptoms such as itching and discharge. Other factors contribute to a woman's decision to douche her vagina like the influence of patients' mothers, friends, and relatives. Some others consider VD as religious duty to be able to pray after menses or sexual intercourse.