Good hygiene during menstruation
Menstrual hygiene is crucial for women's health. Lack of it may lead to serious problems like reproductive tract infections (RTI).
However, it is still largely ignored by many women around the world due to social taboo and superstitions attached with periods.
You may use a store-bought single-use sanitary napkin or a reusable cloth-napkin to absorb the blood. But always remember to change the product every six hours without an exception.
If you wear the same pad for around 8-10 hours during period, you can develop bacterial or fungal infections. Bacterial infection leads to increased risk of urinary tract infection.
Reusable cloth-pads must be washed, dried and disinfected properly. Drying in the sun is recommended.
Washing yourself properly is extremely important during period. However, using soap or vaginal hygiene products are not recommended as they may cause irritation and rashes.
Discarding used sanitary napkins properly is a very important step of menstrual hygiene. It ensures prevention of bacteria and infection spread.
If you are using a period cup, which is gaining popularity increasingly due to its sustainability, please follow the instructions of how to clean it properly before and after use. Also make sure to use a good product.
In case of tampons, make sure to not leave it in for too long to avoid infection as well as toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
You should also try to make healthy food choices during period. Drink plenty of water, eat more fruits and vegetables and less fried and oily foods. Caffeine intake and smoking should be avoided during period. Light exercises are also recommended.
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