The use of a soapy douche following intercourse is recommended as the best preventive against venereal infection ordinarily available for women. Prompt action is essential. The external genitals and adjacent parts should be cleansed thoroughly with soap and water. The douche should then be used. This may consist of a 2 per cent solution of Lysol (about two tablespoons to three pints of soapy water) or 0.5 per cent solution of carbolic acid (two teaspoonfuls to three pints of water). When douching is not feasible, lathering the cervix and vagina with soap with the finger is of considerable value. Mercuric iodide soap is probably preferable to ordinary soap. The use of a mechanical device, such as a pessary to cover the cervix, affords additional protection, particularly against gonorrheal infection.