Talking about this might be a little uncomfortable for you. But we bring you a guide to stay clean and comfortable during your period. Because hygiene is the top priority, isn’t it?
This article covers all the essential things that you need in your checklist to keep yourself clean and comfortable during your periods.
It is extremely important to choose menstrual products based on your own compatibility. It does not need to be like that, just because your friends are using a product that you must do the same, blindfolded. The best choice will be based on the premise of your own requirements, preferences, and the state of your menstrual cycle, either heavy or light. Choosing a product for your body ensures comfort and satisfactory protection.
Let’s compare the different menstrual products quickly-
| Product | Usage | What to do while changing | Maintenance needs |
| Disposable pads | Max 5 hours | Thoroughly wash your hands and genital area with water to prevent spreading bacteria. | Single use |
| Tampons | 4 to 8 hours | Wash your hands thoroughly before using another thermometer | Single use |
| Menstrual cups | 10 to 12 hours | Rinse, wash, and sterilize before using in the next cycle | Repetitive use after sterilization |
| Period underwear | 8 to 12 hours | Rinse, wash, and sterilize before using in the next cycle | Can be used after washing |
Important note: According to the data, around 70% of women experience reproductive disease because of not maintaining adequate menstrual products and practice hygiene.
It is necessary to change menstrual products on a timely basis, because leaving them for longer can provide a space for bacteria to grow quickly. Damaged pads, tampons, or menstrual cups create a moist, warm incubator for the growth of bacteria and fungi and will increase the risk for urinary tract infection (UTI) or bacterial vaginosis. Blood accumulation will also alter vaginal pH and induce imbalance among lactobacilli, which perform essential roles in preventing pathogenic microbes. 90% of women with TSS (toxic shock syndrome) experience it because of not maintaining hygienic menstruation. This disease can be life-threatening, and this mainly happens due to prolonged tampon use, which releases toxins from Staphylococcus aureus.
Also, some women use two pads or a pad and tampon together to avoid the need to change menstrual products frequently. But this is a poor intimate hygiene technique. Both products carry different type of environment for vagina. This can increase irritation due to friction, and leaving a tampon for longer periods can result in TSS.
Changing pads, washing the genital area, and drying it well are some of the essential steps that should be considered during the menstrual cycle. This helps to maintain the pH level of the genital area. Also, if possible, take a bath twice a day, because it will help you to ensure your vaginal health keep intact. Make sure to avoid using scented cleaning products.
Vagina has it natural pH level which help to keep your vagina protected from infections and support fertility, by balancing microorganisms. The healthy pH varies between 3.9 to 4.5, making it inhospitable to harmful yeast, pathogens, and bacteria. But, by using harsh scented products and not ensuring hygiene, it upsets the balance, causing issues like itching and irritation. That is why doctors recommend using gentle products and lukewarm water to wash the bacteria away. It also aligns with maintaining the balance of lactobacilli, which are beneficial bacteria that protect against harmful microbes.
There are signs that you should not ignore and need medical attention-
Wearing breathable and comfortable undergarments is very important, as it aids in better airflow and reduces the buildup of moisture during menstruation, especially in summer. Cotton is the most recommended cloth by a gynecologist. They help in absorbing moisture and are breathable.
Make sure to avoid any scented detergents and fabric softeners for your garment, because these are infused with chemicals and fragrances, which can irritate the skin. Dryness, itching, burning sensation, and even infections are some of the common issues which majorly people experience. It also disbalance pH level, which is the first reason behind the genital issues.
It is one of the keys to hygiene that women usually avoid. Using menstrual products without washing hands and not washing hands after changing menstrual products is a path to infection.
“Hand hygiene is the most important measure to prevent infections- WHO.”
As per the WHO, maintaining hand hygiene can prevent you from getting infections by 40%. Also, the report conducted by several medical groups, it has been found that, not practising hand hygiene can lead to serious issues like toxic shock syndrome, which we already discussed in this article. There is no need of using specific antibacterial soap. And if the soap is not available, then carry hand sanitizer for temporary basis.
In some cultures, there is a belief that women should avoid taking a bath during their periods. There is no scientific reason behind that. Even the doctors recommend taking a bath, especially during periods. If you are working in a hot environment, have a heavy flow issue, or are doing exercise, then it is better to take a bath. Gently washing the external genital area with lukewarm water is enough to keep yourself clean. There is no need to use unnecessary soap or products to wash your area, unless your doctor recommends it.
If you are travelling or unable to take a shower for some reason. Make sure to carry unscented cleaning wipes or a clean towel to ensure your hygiene.
Important tip– skip internal cleaning, because there is are high chance that it can disturb the natural pH balance, and disrupt healthy bacteria.
Most women tend to avoid drinking enough water, because you should know that drinking plenty of water can help to wash out the urinary tract and prevent yeast infections. This is shocking, right?
Don’t worry, here are some reasons you should know-
It is important to visit a gynecologist frequently. Whether or not you are experiencing any issues, visiting a doctor can help you prevent upcoming challenges. Sometimes, we don’t even realise the issue until our doctor checks and analyzes. Here are some of the reasons when you have to contact a healthcare provider-
Also, to keep yourself updated, rather than asking your friends, it is better to use reliable resources like UNFPA or WHO, or consult with an expert like Aveya Fertility Center. They can also help you develop a personal hygiene routine, which can help you protect yourself from unnecessary genital issues.
During menstruation, women’s bodies go through a lot, like having hormonal fluctuations to mood swings. Rather than burdening yourself with issues due to unhygienic habits, it is better to keep yourself clean and healthy. Although this is a natural process, some women still face challenges in maintaining their hygiene.
Aveya Fertility Center always focuses on helping women to keep themselves healthy, because when you start prioritizing your health, you can keep yourself happy. If you are dealing with any issues or are confused about menstrual hygiene, feel free to contact Aveya Fertility Center. Or you can book your consultation.
Does hygiene impact periods?
Yes, because during periods, the vagina is more vulnerable to attracting bacteria, and not keeping yourself clean can lead to infections.
What issues can happen due to poor menstrual hygiene?
Bladder infection, TSS (toxic shock syndrome), yeast infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, and STIs because of not practicing safe sex during periods. Also, it can increase the growth of bacteria, leading to an unpleasant odor.
How often should I wash the genital area during periods?
Although gynecologists recommend washing two times a day, if you don’t have access to do so, make sure to carry cleaning wipes to ensure your hygiene. The vagina clean itself and manage pH balance, but during periods the balance disrupted, that is why it is important to clean yourself.
What is the best menstrual product to use?
As mentioned in the article, it is better to use the product in which you feel comfortable. Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period panties, options are available as per your need.
How to prevent myself from period odor?
Although a normal odor happens to everyone. But wearing breathable clothes, changing products on time, and ensuring good hygiene can prevent odor.