Essential Hygiene Tips During Menstrual Cycle Phases
Many women in India go through their menstrual cycle phases without considering proper hygiene. The cases are widespread but they rarely unfold due to various taboos. Well, the subject of menstruation is usually hushed off for which the hygienic factors often stay grounded. Menstrual health requires more awareness to increase healthy living conditions in females. So, let’s discuss the essential yet overlooked aspect of menstruation hygiene.
There are very few who take this matter seriously. Most of them are not even aware of the significance. Sometimes, they use only one sanitary pad for an entire day. Do you know - that in India, more than 50% of women use cloth during their menstrual age? This is so alarming, especially in this modern era! Therefore, it is pretty much clear, why we need to make ourselves aware.
The goal is to prevent infectious conditions and achieve a healthy menstrual cycle. Here are the most important and basic menstrual hygiene tips every woman should follow.
Understanding your Menstrual Cycle Phases
- Keep Track: Follow a calendar to monitor the starting and ending dates of your period.
- Determine the Flow: Familiarize with your flow. It helps to choose the right menstrual products. Also, you will become aware of when to change the products.
1. Use the Most Suitable Menstrual Product
- Tampons: A cylindrical product, that easily gets inserted into the vagina. It is made from soft and absorbent materials. Tampons should be changed every 4-8 hours to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
- Sanitary Pads: These are available in various sizes and absorbing capacities. Pads should be changed every 4-6 hours, or as per the flow experienced.
- Menstrual Cups: These are specialised cups, designed to collect fluid during a menstrual cycle. These are made from silicone materials and can be worn for about 12 hours.
- Period Panties: These are similar to typical panties but only have a layer of in-built absorbent. These can be worn alone or used as a backup along with other menstrual products.
2. Basic Hygiene & Healthy Practices
- Clean your Genital Area: Use a mild soap and lukewarm water to wash your genitals. This is applicable even outside the menstrual cycle phases. Heavily scented soaps are strictly prohibited as they may trigger irritation.
- Wash your Hands: Make sure to use a handwash before changing menstrual products. This helps in minimizing the risk of infections.
- Change Menstrual Products: Avoid wearing the same product for an extended period. The usage time depends on the product that you’re using.
3. Dispose of Used Products
- Properly Wrap and Discard: It’s better to wrap a used one than wrapping a newly-bought product. Use a disposal bag and keep it separately, before throwing it in the trash.
- Follow Local Guidelines: Some areas may have specific disposal guidelines. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure sustainable practices.
4. Manage Cramps and Prevent Discomfort
- Heat Therapy: Apply a heating pad or hot bag on the lower abdomen. This soothes the area and prevents cramps.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Use Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to get relief from period pain and inflammation. Make sure to consult with a gynaecologist before consuming.
- Gentle Exercise: Light walking and stretching can improve blood flow in the body. This prevents cramps in the genital area.
Takeaway
FAQs
Why is Menstruation Important for Females?
Menstruation is important for every female as it is a way to release the nonessential tissues. It is a process that prepares the body to get pregnant.
What are the Most Suitable Menstrual Products during a Menstrual Cycle?
Menstrual products are designed to meet specific needs. The options include:
- Tampons
- Sanitary Pads
- Menstrual Cups
- Period Panties
Choose one that suits your comfort zone and lifestyle.
How Often Should I Change Menstrual Products?
The changing period depends on the products you’re using. Also, the volume of flow is a factor here. However, a product should not be used for an entire day.
How to Safely Clean My Genital Area?
There are mild soaps available that are specially manufactured for use on genital areas. Use these products and maintain hygiene regularly.
How to Get Relief from Menstrual Cramps?
Several methods can be applied to alleviate cramps during menstrual cycle phases. These include:
- Application of heat on the abdomen
- Taking NSAIDs with doctor’s guidance
- Performing light activities
The goal here is to prevent genital muscles from becoming stiff. Keep them free as much as possible by following these methods.
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