Menstruation, commonly known as a “period,” is a natural bodily function experienced by millions globally on a monthly basis. During this process, the uterus sheds blood and tissue from its lining, which is then expelled from the body through the vagina.
May 28 marks Menstrual Hygiene Day, dedicated to promoting good menstrual hygiene practices, access to menstrual products, period education, and sanitation facilities.
Promote Healthy Habits During Your Menstrual Cycle
Embracing good menstrual health and hygiene practices can aid in preventing infections, minimizing odors, and enhancing your overall comfort during menstruation.
Various menstrual products are available to absorb or collect blood during your period, such as sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and period underwear. When using these menstrual products, adhere to the following tips, in conjunction with the instructions provided with the product.
Maintain Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands before and after restroom use and before handling menstrual products.
Dispose of Disposable Menstrual Products Properly: Wrap used disposable menstrual products in toilet paper or tissue before discarding them in a trash bin. Do not flush menstrual products down the toilet.
Sanitary Pads: Change sanitary pads every few hours, irrespective of flow intensity. Increase frequency if experiencing a heavy flow.
Tampons: Change tampons every 4 to 8 hours, ensuring not to wear a single tampon for more than 8 hours at a time.
Menstrual cup: Maintain hygiene by cleaning your menstrual cup daily after each use. To sanitize, thoroughly rinse it and then immerse in boiling water for one to two minutes post-period.
Period underwear: Most reusable period underwear is machine washable. Follow product directions on the best way to clean. For additional cleanliness, consider soaking them in a mild detergent solution before washing, and avoid using fabric softeners as they can reduce absorbency.
Important points to keep in mind
1. Wear breathable clothing: Opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton underwear to prevent moisture buildup, which can harbor germs.
2. Change menstrual products regularly: Avoid leaving pads or period underwear on for too long to prevent rashes or infections caused by trapped moisture.
3. Maintain genital hygiene: Clean the vulva and bottom daily, wiping from front to back when using the bathroom. Use water only to rinse the vulva, as harsh chemicals can disrupt the vagina’s natural pH balance and lead to infections.
4. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough liquids helps flush out your urinary tract, reducing the risk of infections like vaginal candidiasis.
5. Track your period: Monitoring your menstrual cycle is important for overall health. Irregular periods could indicate underlying conditions such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or celiac disease. Use a calendar or a dedicated app to track your period accurately.
6. Schedule annual check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider for an annual well-woman exam are crucial. This comprehensive check-up includes a pap smear, pelvic exam, and breast exam, which can detect early signs of cancer or other health issues, ensuring good reproductive health.
– Mili (MBBS , Social Media director and Editor, MCD)
