How to Keep Hygiene During Menstruation

Menstruation is one of the vital processes of a woman’s body. It is a sensitive time for all the women and deserves utmost caution and self-care. But many women remain unaware of the clean and healthy practices that must be followed during this time of the month. Whether you are nearing menopause or have just attained puberty, not following hygienic practices can lead to several dangerous infections such as vaginal infections and UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). Moreover, ensuring proper hygiene during menses and eating right also eases the pain that you go through. Here are some crucial menstrual practices that all women should follow:

Wash yourself properly

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Washing your vagina on a regular basis is extremely crucial since the organisms cling to your body after you have removed your sanitary napkin. While most people wash themselves regularly, they don’t know the right way, which is using your hands in motion from the vagina to the anus and not vice-versa. Motioning your hand from the anus to the vagina can cause the bacteria to transfer from the anus to the vagina which leads to infections.

Change the products often

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The longer a sanitary product stays in contact with your body, the higher the risk of you attracting infection. When the sanitary napkins are left on for too long, it can cause rashes and also causes infections. In general, a sanitary napkin can be used for up to six hours. Whereas, tampons need to be changed every two to three hours as they go into the vagina and have higher levels of absorbency. Menstrual cups need to be emptied when they get full and thus depends on your flow.

Do not use soaps or vagina hygiene products

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Though using vaginal hygiene products every day is a good idea. However, when you use these products during menses, it can turn things around. Vaginas have their own cleaning mechanism which comes into play during menstrual cycles. Artificial hygiene products can hamper the natural process causing infections and growth of bacteria.

Stick to one method of sanitation

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There are many women who tend to use tampons and sanitary napkins, or two sanitary napkins simultaneously during heavy flow. While this technique may keep you dry and prevent clothes getting stained, it can cause infections too. The combination of two techniques absorbs the blood making us ignorant to the need of changing the tampons and sanitary napkins. When there is an absence of frequent change, the accumulated blood invites bacteria and causes infections. Thus, it is recommended to use one sanitary napkin and change it as frequently as possible during heavy flow.

Wrapping up:

These are some of the essential practices for ensuring a clean and healthy period. It is also beneficial to be well prepared around the time of your period. Always carry with you extra pads, tampons, and clean towels. Also, discard your used products by wrapping them properly so that infections are contained.