Menstruation, the monthly physiological cycle during which a woman experiences the shedding of the uterus’s inner lining, typically lasts about 3-7 days each month. It serves as an indicator of one’s overall health status. Commencing in adolescence, often around the ages of 12 to 13, menstruation continues until menopause, which can happen anytime between 50 to 54.
Despite being a natural process, menstruation is regarded as taboo in numerous cultures, leading to stigmatization and being labelled as unclean. For instance, in India, women undergoing menstruation are often prohibited from entering places of worship or the kitchen. While this practice has diminished in urban areas over time, it remains prevalent in certain rural regions. Many households fail to recognize the importance of educating young girls about menstruation and its significance in terms of hygiene. Due to its taboo status, menstruation is considered a topic of shame when it constitutes a natural phase in a woman’s life that warrants open dialogue.
Girls frequently miss school during their menstrual periods due to concerns of embarrassment stemming from using cloth as a makeshift sanitary solution. Access to sanitary pads is challenging, particularly in rural areas or for girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Using inadequate cloth during menstruation can result in infections due to subpar menstrual hygiene, including Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Fortunately, progress is being made, with budget-friendly sanitary napkins becoming more accessible. This has reduced concerns about leakage and infections stemming from unhygienic methods of managing menstrual blood, consequently improving school attendance among girls.
Why is Menstrual Hygiene Important?
Menstruation entails more than just 3-5 days of bleeding. It brings forth many challenges, ranging from headaches to stomach cramps. Each woman’s experience differs, as does the impact of their monthly cycle. It is crucial for women undergoing menstruation to uphold proper hygiene, as this helps prevent Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs), a commonly observed issue.
Utilizing cloth pieces or even sanitary pads for extended periods creates an environment conducive to spreading bacteria and yeast. This is particularly exacerbated in humid conditions, which can lead to infiltration of the Urinary Tract, encompassing the urethra and urinary bladder. Subsequently, inflammation occurs, resulting in painful urination, fever, back pain, and lower back pain.
Instances where unsanitary napkins are employed to manage or collect menstrual blood, carry a heightened risk of contracting RTIs and vaginal infections. This predicament is particularly prevalent among individuals in India who lack access to sanitary napkins. Failing to maintain menstrual hygiene can trigger skin irritation and potentially lead to dermatitis, characterized by swollen, inflamed skin that may become sore and develop blisters.
Tips for Healthy Menstrual Hygiene
Maintaining healthy menstrual hygiene is crucial for overall well-being. Here are some essential tips for maintaining good menstrual hygiene:
- Use Clean and Absorbent Products: Choose sanitary products that suit your comfort and needs, such as cotton sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or reusable cloth pads. Change your sanitary product regularly (every 4-8 hours, depending on flow) to avoid bacterial growth and odour.
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands before and after changing sanitary products to prevent the transfer of germs.
- Proper Disposal: Wrap used sanitary products in tissue or toilet paper before disposing them in a proper bin. Avoid flushing them down the toilet, as it can cause plumbing issues.
- Maintain Personal Hygiene: Take showers regularly during your menstrual cycle to keep yourself clean and fresh. Use a mild, unscented soap to clean your genital area. Avoid using strongly scented products that could disrupt your natural pH balance.
- Choose Breathable Underwear: Opt for cotton underwear as they are more breathable and help prevent moisture build-up, reducing the risk of infections.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce bloating and support overall comfort during menstruation.
- Balanced Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients can help alleviate menstrual symptoms. Include iron-rich foods and avoid excessive caffeine, salt, and sugary foods.
- Pain Management: If you experience menstrual cramps, consult a healthcare professional about safe pain relief options, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or natural remedies like heat packs.
- Avoid Douching: Douching disrupts the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and can lead to infections. The vagina is self-cleaning, so avoid using harsh cleansers.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise can help improve blood circulation, reduce bloating, and alleviate cramps.
- Track Your Cycle: Use a period tracker app or calendar to keep track of your menstrual cycle. This can help you anticipate when your period will arrive and be prepared.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to a healthcare professional for gynaecological check-ups to ensure your reproductive health is in good condition.
- Be Prepared: Keep spare sanitary products, underwear, and comfortable clothing in your bag if your period starts unexpectedly.
- Listen to Your Body: If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or unusual odour, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Conclusion
During menstruation, we frequently ignore basic cleanliness procedures, yet even a slight omission can cause severe discomfort. Let us increase our awareness of our personal health and take extra precautions throughout this month to promote well-being, happiness, and self-assurance. High-quality cotton sanitary pads are crucial for ensuring comfort, cleanliness, and the preservation of healthy, dry skin. Prioritizing our trip to healthcare is critical, and our selection of sanitary pads is well-suited to meet your requirements.
