It’s a scientific fact that we menstruate every month. And there’s simply no reason why we should be uncomfortable during this monthly period. As women, we are vulnerable to several infections and a host of other complications such as cysts, etc. that can be avoided by following the proper menstrual hygiene tips. Menstrual hygiene is important for women to maintain their health.
In this article, we are going to share the 11 menstrual hygiene tips that every woman should follow to keep her menstrual cycle free from infection, and bacteria and make it comfortable for themselves.
But, before we share these tips, let us enlighten ourselves with the overall idea of Menstrual hygiene.
What is Menstrual Hygiene?
Menstrual hygiene refers to the practice of keeping your menstrual cycle clean and healthy. This includes avoiding activities that can cause bacteria to enter your vagina, such as using the toilet while you're menstruating, douching, or swimming in unclean water. It's also important to remember to use a sanitary pad or tampon every day during your period. If you don't use them correctly, they can increase your risk of getting an infection.
Also read: 10 Best ways to improve mental health during periods
Menstrual hygiene is recommended as a primary prevention method for reducing reproductive tract infections (RTIs) like bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections among women of all ages.
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11 Menstrual Hygiene Tips to keep you Healthy
1. Change your Period underwear daily
It is important to keep yourself clean and comfortable while you are on your period. Changing your underwear daily will help reduce the risk of infection by keeping bacteria away from the skin next to your vagina. This makes it easier for you to stay fresh and clean throughout the day.
2. Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes
Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes during your period is important. It will help you move easily and won't get in the way of you doing your daily activities. This also prevents cramping or aching in the pelvic region due to tight clothing, which can make you uncomfortable during your menstruation.
3. Use a mild soap
When it comes to your menstrual hygiene, the quality of your cleanser can make all the difference! Many women who are new to menstruation are surprised by how sensitive their skin is during their period. This is why it's important to select a mild soap that is free of harsh chemicals and perfumes when washing your body and genital areas.
Keep in mind that some soaps contain fragrances, which may irritate sensitive skin.
4. Drink plenty of water
It is a good practice to drink plenty of water during your menstrual period. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep the body hydrated and reduces cramps. Drinking water also helps to flush out excess salt and toxins from your body, which can cause bloating and discomfort during your period.
You should also stay hydrated by drinking other fluids like juice or milk. If you do not like any of these options, try drinking herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint tea, which are known for their calming properties.
5. Wash your hands properly
This is a really important tip for menstrual hygiene—not just because it's the best way to stay clean, but also because it can prevent infections. If you're not washing your hands properly, you might be spreading germs from one place to another and putting yourself at risk for infection. So don't forget to wash your hands properly!
To wash properly, use warm water and soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer—not antibacterial soap—and rub them together for at least 30 seconds (that's about how long it takes for the water to get hot). Then rinse them off with clean water and dry them off with a paper towel or air dryer.
6. Stay stress-free
Stress is one of the leading causes of menstrual irregularities, so it's important to try and keep yourself stress-free during your period. If you're having trouble keeping things under control, try some relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
7. Use the right laundry detergent
As much as we'd love to take credit for this tip, it's all about the detergent you're using. The trick is finding a detergent that works for your period and your laundry routine.
You'll want to look for a detergent that's advertised as being gentle on sensitive skin.The detergent should be designed specifically to be kind to your skin, meaning it should not irritate it or cause any itching or rashes.
8. Avoid using tampons
Instead of taking a break from your life to deal with your period, give yourself a break by wearing Healthfab reusable period underwear. They are 100% safe, rash-free, and environmentally friendly—and they're super comfortable and stylish.
Tampons and sanitary pads are not good for your body because they contain harmful chemicals and synthetics that can cause infections and other complications.
9. Avoid using razors
Using a razor to clean your genitals is a common mistake that can lead to cuts and infections. Instead, use a washcloth or soft cloth and warm water to gently cleanse the area around your labia, vagina, and anus.
If you experience irritation or excessive bleeding after using a razor around your genitals, stop using it immediately and consult your healthcare provider right away.
10. Avoid Chemical that can irritate your genital area
If you're having a hard time finding the right balance of hygiene and comfort, try avoiding chemical products that can irritate your genital area. Some studies have shown that even mild irritation of the skin on or around the genitals can increase the risk of developing a yeast infection, which can be painful and cause other complications like itching or burning.
If you experience frequent irritation or discomfort during your period, talk to your doctor about whether using a new brand or type of product could help improve your symptoms.
11. Develop a personal hygiene routine
Developing a personal hygiene routine would ensure that you are able to keep clean and healthy during your period. A personal hygiene routine will help you be more comfortable during your period, as well as reduce the risk of infection or irritation.
Why is Menstrual Hygiene important?
Menstrual hygiene is important because it allows women to have a more comfortable and healthy life. During menstruation, the body goes through a lot of changes, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. These symptoms can be reduced or eliminated by adopting good menstrual hygiene practices.
Menstruation is a natural part of being a woman. It is essential to maintain proper hygiene during this time because it can affect your health in many ways. For example, if you do not take proper care of your vaginal area, you may develop an infection or suffer from other complications such as abdominal pain and cramps.
FAQ on Menstrual Hygiene
Q. Does hygiene affect your period?
Answer: It depends on what you mean by the hygiene. If you're talking about washing your hands, then the answer is no, but if you're talking about your entire hygiene routine, then yes! Your period can be affected by how well you take care of yourself during and after your cycle.
Q. What causes poor menstrual hygiene?
Answer: Poor menstrual hygiene is caused by a lack of education and awareness about the proper care of your period. It's also often caused by not having access to the supplies you need to keep clean, or not having enough time for yourself to do so.
If you're experiencing poor menstrual hygiene, it's important to know that there are ways to improve it.
Q. What can poor menstrual hygiene lead to?
Answer: Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to a variety of issues, including infections and rashes. It can also lead to the growth of bacteria in your underwear, which can cause odor. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to a number of health issues, including:
- Bladder infections (UTIs)
- Yeast infections
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Q. When is world menstrual hygiene day?
Answer: World Menstrual Hygiene Day is celebrated on May 28th every year. It was first held in 2001, and it's a day to raise awareness about the importance of menstrual hygiene for women and girls around the world.
Also read: Our Ultimate Guide to Period Panty
On a Final note
Menstruation is a natural thing, however, it has a stigma and we want to change the perception of it. It is the need of the hour to help women to realize that menstruation hygiene is important. These menstrual hygiene tips will help you to safely deal with your period and avoid infections, as well as be able to take better care of yourself throughout your period.