Introduction
Hygiene during menstruation is a natural part of a woman’s reproductive health and it is important to take certain measures to take during menstruation.
These measures can ensure the health of the reproductive system and the overall well being of the body.
Despite its importance, most women, especially those who live in rural parts of the country, those who go to school, college and work, face challenges in maintaining it.
In this article, let’s look at the importance of menstrual health and hygiene and how to easily maintain one’s menstrual hygiene.
What is Menstrual Hygiene?
Menstrual hygiene refers to the practices and measures we take to ensure the cleanliness of the reproductive organs during the menstrual cycle to prevent it from any infection or issues.
Why is it Important to Maintain Menstrual Hygiene?
Here are some commonly used feminine period products that one can use such as:
Sanitary pads
Sanitary pads are the most common menstrual hygiene products that many women prefer as it is easy to use and dispose.
How to use?
- Just peel the sticker on top of the adhesive and stick the pad to the inside of your panties.
- If the pad has wings, fold the wings and paste it on the outer side of your panties.
- Change the sanitary pad after every 3-4 hours to maintain proper hygiene.
Tampons
Tampons are yet another menstrual hygiene product that many women prefer. It is a tube-like object that is placed inside the vagina to absorb the menstrual blood.
How to use?
- Stand by spreading your legs or go into a squat position.
- Insert the tampons into the vagina aiming at the back by gently pushing it.
- Replace the tampon after 6 to 8 hours of application.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are cup or bell shaped menstrual hygiene products that collect menstrual blood when placed inside the vagina. It stores the menstrual blood instead of absorbing it like sanitary pads and tampons.
How to use?
- Sit in a squatting position and insert the menstrual cup by folding it to a desired shape into the vagina using your fingers.
- It is important to empty the contents from the menstrual cup and clean it every 12 hours or when you feel the cup is almost full.
Menstrual panties or period panties
Period panties are sanitary pads that can be worn as panties and disposed of after use. Period panties are a good option when the period flow is heavy or over night usage.
How to use?
- Open the wrap and wear the period panties like how you would wear your panties.
- Dispose of the panties by wrapping it in a piece of paper after 6 to 8 hours of use.
Common Hygienic Practices during Menstruation
To ensure proper menstrual hygiene, consider the following practices:
- Regular dispose/ changing of pads and tampons: Menstrual products such as pads and tampons should be changed every 3 to 4 hours. When it comes to menstrual cups, the contents should be emptied within 12 hours or depending upon the flow.
- Washing the genitals: It is essential to wash the genital area with normal or lukewarm water and pat it dry. Ensure to do this every time you change your pad or tampons.
- Washing the hands: one of the most basic yet important steps to follow is washing the hands well both before and after using any menstrual product to avoid the spread of bacteria.
- Comfortable clothing: Apart from these things, it is important to wear cotton underwear that fits you well. Avoid wearing underwear and clothes that are too tight and opt for breathable options to reduce irritation.
Conclusion
Maintaining menstrual hygiene is not just important for the reproductive organs but also for the overall well being of the body.
By following these common hygienic practices during menstruation, one can easily maintain menstrual hygiene even while traveling or going for work.
It is also important to talk to a gynecologist before using any menstrual hygiene products.
Schedule your appointments with Dr. Deepthi Jammi, the best gynecologist in Chennai. Contact Jammi scans at 7338771733.
Chennai women’s clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ
1. How do you maintain hygiene in private parts?
To maintain hygiene in private parts, ensure to:
- Wash hands before and after using any menstrual product
- Change the sanitary pad or tampon every 3 hours
- Wash the genital area with clean water or with lukewarm water if possible
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and scented products in and around the vagina.
2. How can one maintain good menstrual hygiene in public spaces?
When it comes to mating menstrual hygiene in public spaces, it is important to carry a few basic necessities such as:
- A hand sanitiser to sanitize the hands
- Wet and dry tissues to clean the genitals
- A piece of paper to dispose the used pads/tampons
- Fresh tampons/sanitary pads.
3. Are there any eco-friendly options for menstrual hygiene?
Yes, there are a lot of eco-friendly options available including menstrual cups which can be used for up to 2 years. These days, there are a lot of eco-friendly tampons and sanitary pads are also available in the market that are made from cotton and other eco friendly materials.
4. Can poor menstrual hygiene lead to health complications?
Yes, poor menstrual hygiene can potentially lead to health complications such as yeast infection, foul smelling vagina, irritation in the vaginal area, and UTI.
