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

Before we move on to hygienic practices, it’s important to comprehend the menstrual cycle properly. Make yourself familiar with the period symptoms, pattern and length of the menstrual cycle.

• 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. 

Following a hygienic practice becomes easier when you understand these patterns and symptoms.

1. Use the Most Suitable Menstrual Product

There are different types of menstrual products available in the market. Choosing the right one is a key factor in maintaining hygiene. Choose a product that is suitable to your symptoms. So, the options include:

• 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

Follow these basic practices to prevent discomfort and infections. 

• 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 dispose of menstrual products to prevent unhygienic conditions. Also, there are several environmental reasons: 

• 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

Cramps are one of the period symptoms and can affect daily activities. Here are some best practices to prevent such 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

These are some general hygiene practices during the menstrual cycle phases. Every woman can experience a healthy period by following these essential tips. Share the knowledge as much as possible and break the stigma surrounding menstruation. If you want to know more about related topics focusing on the menstrual cycle, stay tuned to our blog page. 

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.