How To Care Of Menstrual Hygeine During Menstrual Cycle

• 21/05/2023
• 0

How To Care Of Menstrual Hygeine During Menstrual Cycle – 52% of the women worldwide are in the reproductive age group and most of them are therefore menstruating regularly. Still, the majority of these ladies are not aware of / in a condition to take care of their menstrual hygiene. this may be because of their lack of awareness/lack of facilities/ myths social taboos.

We as women discuss so freely about many topics like food, jewellery, makeup, and dresses but surprisingly talk less about health issues and less about intimate hygiene. It’s essential to maintain intimate hygiene to keep fresh and prevent serious infections. The tendency of bad smell and infections increases more so at the time of menstruation if proper hygiene is not maintained. This happens particularly because of the change in vaginal pH due to blood. Normally vaginal area has an acidic pH of around 3.5 to 4.5. This acidic pH protects the vagina from infection by making the area non-conducive to entry of organisms.

Importance Of Menstrual Hygiene 

90% of the time vulvovaginitis is an ascending infection. Ascending infection means the source is external i.e. from the urethra (Urinary tract infection), anus (gastro-intestinal tract infection) or vagina (sexually transmitted infection). It can particularly occur due to poor menstrual hygiene practices. It is estimated that only 24% of ladies go to a gynaecologist at the first sign of infection. This means that many of these symptoms which may have long-term complications are often ignored.

This pH changes during menstruation as the blood is alkaline. Menstrual hygiene is very important because if a girl/woman is not careful, she can end up getting infected. In a woman, infection can travel up from the vagina to the uterus and can spread to the inside of the abdomen. This in turn can lead to serious infections that may have long-term sequelae like blocked tubes and inability to bear children and this is very serious.

Finding the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh is crucial for addressing any gynaecological concerns and maintaining overall reproductive health. Consulting with a reputable gynaecologist can guide you on maintaining intimate hygiene and addressing any potential issues

Let us see what are the things to do to maintain menstrual hygiene

1. Cleansing:

Wash frequently with mild soap and water / feminine washes. While cleaning the intimate area with tissue, one should always remember to wipe, and clean from front to back to avoid soiling the area with bacteria around the anus, and faecal matter. Similarly while using the jet/shower remember not to wash from back to front, it should be vice versa.

2. Take a bath daily

Although it is very important to clean between the lips of the vagina, it is advisable not to use douche sand never to clean inside the vagina.

3. Use of sanitary pads/tampons/ menstrual cups, menstrual underwear

Always Use a good brand sanitary pad. Ideally, it should be changed every 3 to 6 hours or earlier if it gets soaked. Using one pad for a very long time will attract bacterial growth, invite infection and produce foul odour. Avoid using cloth as it may cause infection.

One needs to change tampons every 4 to 8 hours to avoid getting infections (serious one is toxic shock syndrome). Menstrual cups need to be properly cleaned and worn for 6 to 12 hours at a stretch after which it needs to be cleaned.

4. Hand hygiene

Washing of hands before and after changing pads/tampons and menstrual cups is extremely important as is the proper disposal of sanitary pads and menstrual products

5. Avoid wearing tight jeans/pants

Avoid wearing tight jeans/pants which tend to hold moisture and in turn may cause the breeding of harmful bacteria. One should use separate, clean and dry undergarments.

6 Balanced diets

Girls/women should be taking a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fruits, vegetables and nuts. Iron iron-rich diet is particularly important in young menstruating women.

Avoid fatty oily and excessively salty foods during the periods because these may cause bloating sensation& fluid retention.

6. Avoid using public toilets

Avoid using public toilets as they may be unhygienic and a source of infection

7. Avoid sharing your towels and clothing.

Take help in case you develop any of the following

• Abdominal pain,
• Abnormal bleeding,
• Fever and/or chills,
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or odour
• Vulvovaginal lesions/ lumps
• Painful urination,
• Irregular or missed period.
• Severe menstrual cramps
• Blood in the urine

Conclusion

To ensure timely and proper treatment for vulvovaginitis or any other gynaecological concerns, it is recommended to seek professional help from a reliable gynaecologist. Dr. Ahuja Clinic is the best lady specialist clinic in Chandigarh, providing comprehensive care for women’s health. Consulting with experts at Dr. Ahuja Clinic can help diagnose and address any infections or complications while ensuring the well-being of patients.

May 28th is celebrated as World Menstrual Hygiene Day.