7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Proper Period Hygiene

Menstruation is a natural part of every woman’s life, and maintaining proper period hygiene is essential for overall well-being. It not only ensures comfort and prevents infections but also promotes a healthy menstrual cycle. However, due to a lack of awareness or misinformation, many women make common period hygiene mistakes. In this article, we will discuss these mistakes and provide valuable tips on how to avoid them.

Why is Maintaining Period Hygiene Important?

Maintaining proper period hygiene is crucial for women’s health and well-being. It helps prevent infections such as bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections by reducing the buildup of bacteria. Good hygiene practices also minimize odor, promote comfort, and reduce skin irritation. By maintaining a proper pH balance and using suitable menstrual products, women can protect their vaginal health and minimize discomfort. Additionally, practicing good period hygiene reduces the risk of staining and keeps the menstrual cycle healthy. Overall, prioritizing menstrual hygiene ensures women’s physical comfort and safeguards their reproductive health.

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To shed more light on this topic, we spoke to Dr. Amrita Razdan Kaul, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecology at Asian Hospital – Faridabad, who shared common period hygiene mistakes that women should avoid for their menstrual health.

Common Period Hygiene Mistakes

Here are seven period hygiene mistakes you should avoid:

1. Not Changing Pads or Tampons on Time

One of the most common menstrual hygiene mistakes is not changing pads or tampons frequently enough. Wearing a pad or tampon for an extended period can lead to bacterial growth, which can cause infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). To avoid this, make sure to change your pad or tampon every 4-6 hours during the day and before going to bed at night.

2. Using Scented Products

Many women use scented pads, tampons, and talc to control the odor of menstrual blood. However, these products contain added chemicals that can cause irritation and allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin. It is best to use unscented products and change them frequently to maintain proper hygiene.

3. Neglecting Proper Hand Hygiene

Washing your hands before and after changing pads or tampons is crucial to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Neglecting this can lead to infections and illnesses, as blood is a good medium for the growth of microorganisms. Always remember to wash your hands with soap and water before and after changing your menstrual products.

4. Ignoring Personal Hygiene

During menstruation, it is important to pay extra attention to personal hygiene. Avoiding regular showers, wearing sweaty or tight-fitting underwear, and not adequately cleaning intimate areas can create an environment for bacteria to thrive. Maintain proper hygiene by showering daily, wearing clean and breathable underwear, and cleaning the vaginal area with gentle, unscented products.

5. Not Cleaning Reusable Menstrual Products Properly

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While reusable menstrual products like cloth pads or menstrual cups are eco-friendly alternatives, they require proper cleaning and maintenance. Failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions can lead to bacterial growth and infections. Thoroughly clean and sanitize reusable products using mild soap and water or as per the specific guidelines provided.

6. Neglecting to Track Your Period

Tracking your period is important for several reasons. It helps you plan for when your period will start so you can ensure that you have menstrual products on hand. It also helps you monitor the length of your cycle and any changes in flow or symptoms. Neglecting to track your period can lead to surprise periods and unnecessary stress.

7. Not Staying Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for overall health, including menstrual hygiene. Staying hydrated helps maintain the natural lubrication of the vaginal area, reduces the chances of vaginal dryness, and prevents discomfort. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day or more if you engage in physical activities.

Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is vital for every woman’s well-being. By avoiding these common period hygiene mistakes, women can ensure better comfort, reduce the risk of infections, and experience a healthy period flow! Remember to prioritize your menstrual health and take care of yourself during this natural phase of life.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health