1.  2.  3.  4.   5.  6.  7.  8.  9.

Answer:

Everyone is different. Some people dig making out with the smelliest person in the room, while others only become aroused when their olfactory senses are convinced that a partner has been doused in Lysol.  However, most people fall somewhere in between—desiring a certain basic level of hygiene but appreciating a partner’s natural odors as well.  These are odors that can release pheromones (chemicals that are specifically designed to attract a partner), so completely washing them away can actually have the opposite effect than desired!  

We live in an odor-phobic society. Women in particular often hear that their genitals are dirty and smelly and as a result assume that they must be washed thoroughly inside and out. But, much like an oven, the vagina is self cleaning.  The last thing it needs is a douche to strip away all the healthy bacteria and potentially leave an unpleasant infection in its wake.  Washing the vulva (a woman’s external genitals) with a mild soap and water is more than enough. 

Though guy's genitals don’t get the same bad press when it comes to the odor department, men are not completely spared from worrying about genital funk. Again, scrubbing with bleach is not necessary! But fellas, washing with a mild soap and water sure is. For guys who are uncut, it is important to pull back the foreskin and wash the head of your penis. This can help prevent the build up of smegma. Though the name lends itself easily to playground taunts, the substance actually serves as a lubrication in moderation.  However, when not washed regularly smegma can also cause unpleasant odors and in rare cases act as a glue, making it difficult for the foreskin to roll back comfortably.    

As to deodorant, whether or not your bed mate appreciates it, the person next to you on the subway most definitely will!