Evaluate your Menstrual Hygiene

Menstrual hygiene guide

Menstrual hygiene is essential for safeguarding the health and overall well-being of all females. Practicing good hygiene during menstruation not only enhances comfort and confidence but also reduces the risk of infection, irritation, and discomfort. Here are some tips you can follow for hygiene during your periods:

Choose the right sanitary products

Choosing the right sanitary products during menstruation is important for maintaining good menstrual hygiene. The most suitable products can help prevent leaks, reduce discomfort, and avoid infections, while inappropriate ones can lead to irritation, rashes, and other health issues.

An ideal sanitary product provides a good fit, effectively preventing uncomfortable leaks that can stain clothing and bedding. Today, an extensive range of menstrual products are accessible to everyone. Among the most widely used are:

• Pads: Made from cotton, polymer, or other breathable materials, pads efficiently absorb blood. There are two types of pads: reusable and disposable.
• Tampons: Tampons are small cylinders that are inserted into the vagina to absorb blood before it leaves the body. Their internal use offers advantages over other products, as they allow for all types of physical activities and are invisible.
• Menstrual Cups: These are folded and inserted into the vagina. They collect the blood and can be emptied after a few hours.
• Other products include sponges, sanitary napkins, and panty liners.

Changing products regularly

There is an absolute need to change menstrual products every few hours, or sooner if the bleeding is heavy. If not changed regularly, the absorbed blood and warmth create a good environment for bacterial growth. These bacteria can cause a number of infections, including skin infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs) when they ascend the urethra, and even reproductive tract infections in some women.

Pads need to be changed every 4 to 6 hours, while tampons should be replaced every 8 hours or sooner, especially if less absorbent types are used. Menstrual cups should be emptied every 8 to 12 hours. It is also important to sterilize the cups properly, given they are directly inserted into the body.

Correct disposal of used products

After using sanitary products, it’s important to dispose of them properly. Wrap the used product in biodegradable or toilet paper, or in a pouch, and throw it into designated bins. If you can’t find a disposal bin, keep the wrapped product with you until you find a suitable place to dispose of it.

Avoid flushing used products down the toilet, as it can cause blockages and spread germs. When using public restrooms, it might be helpful to carry disposal bags with you. These bags can be used to dispose of used sanitary products in a hygienic and discreet manner.

Wash hands thoroughly

Before and after changing menstrual products, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. It is also important to wash your hands before handling the product, as they will come in direct contact with vagina.

Regular hand washing is an important aspect of overall hygiene. Good hand hygiene practices can also help prevent the spread of other illnesses and diseases.

Intimate hygiene

When changing menstrual products, it is also essential to take steps to clean the genital area to reduce the risk of infections. Wash the external genital area or vulva with mild soap and water, moving in a direction from front to back, and never the reverse. Avoid douching or using any type of intimate wash for the vagina, as it is a self-cleaning organ.

Washing it can disturb the natural pH of the vaginal flora, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria, which can result in conditions like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.

Wear comfortable and loose clothing

During periods, it is advisable to wear loose and breathable clothes that allow proper air circulation. Avoid wearing tight jeans or any clothing that might pose a risk of rashes. It is also recommended to use cotton underwear, which is less likely to irritate the skin. If air is not properly circulated, the resulting moisture and warmth can promote bacterial growth.

Dressing in layers can help you regulate your body temperature, which can fluctuate during menstruation.

Ensure hygienic storage

Store all menstrual products in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them protected from moisture to prevent bacterial growth. Menstrual products stored improperly can lead to multiple complications.

Stay hydrated

Drink an adequate amount of water to flush out toxins and keep the urinary tract clean, especially during menstruation when unhygienic practices can increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Consuming plenty of water helps keep the urinary tract free from microbes.

It’s essential to stay well-hydrated during your menstrual cycle because your body loses fluids and blood during this time. Drinking enough water can help replenish these fluids and prevent dehydration, which can cause fatigue, headaches, bloating, and constipation.

Furthermore, staying hydrated can help regulate your body temperature and reduce cramping by relaxing the muscles in your uterus. It can also aid in the production of cervical mucus, which is important for fertility. It is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day during your menstrual cycle to maintain proper hydration.

Avoid using scented products

Avoid using scented pads, tampons, or any other products for genital areas. The added fragrances can disrupt the normal pH balance and can be harmful to these sensitive areas. It’s always safer to choose unscented products instead. Remember that good menstrual hygiene doesn’t necessitate masking natural odors but rather ensures cleanliness and comfort.

Keep track of periods

Tracking your menstrual cycles and keeping a check on them with period tracker tools allows you to anticipate your upcoming periods so you can plan accordingly. Menstrual Portal also offers you the option to track your periods.

Maintain personal hygiene

Maintaining overall hygiene during menstruation is crucial. Regular bathing or showering, frequent hand washing after using the toilet, and changing underwear regularly are some key practices. This not only helps keep you clean and feeling fresh but also helps prevent potential infections or irritations.

Remember, good personal hygiene is an essential part of managing your period comfortably and confidently.

Take regular bath

It is a common misconception that bathing during menstruation should be avoided. However, it is essential to bathe regularly during your periods. Regular bathing helps maintain personal hygiene, provides a feeling of freshness, and can also alleviate menstrual discomfort such as cramps. Just be sure to use warm water and mild, unscented soap to avoid any possible skin irritation.

Take care of yourself

Alongside the appropriate use of menstrual products and hygienic practices, it is equally important to prioritize rest and self-care during menstruation. The menstrual cycle can be both physically and emotionally draining, leading to fatigue, mood swings, and cramps. Therefore, ensuring adequate rest and prioritizing self-care is crucial during this time. Self-care activities such as meditation, taking a warm bath, practicing yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help alleviate stress and anxiety, making it easier to manage menstrual symptoms.