Vaginal steaming is a widespread and universal practice not isolated to one single origin. Ancient records document the use of vaginal steam practices in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceana, and the Americas.
Despite historical worldwide use of vaginal steaming, the practice gradually fell into decline, especially in the Western world. The reason for this is two-fold: 1) Several hundred years ago Europe passed laws making it illegal for anyone other than medical doctors to practice medicine. These laws were violently enforced and eliminated most female health practitioners who at the time were often barred from attending medical school. In their absence, the knowledge of multiple traditional reproductive health practices, including vaginal steaming, went into obscurity. 2) During the European colonization period, the patriarchal system of medicine that had developed in the absence of female physicians was imposed worldwide while at the same time outlawing indigenous medicine in colonial settlements. These practices further pushed steaming into obscurity.
In recent years, women are reclaiming autonomy over their own health and, with this awakening, the traditional practice of vaginal steaming has re-emerged.
Gaining renown for its potential ability to improve a long list of gynecological health concerns, vaginal steaming is growing quickly in popularity and becoming used widely once again.