Regular periods are a sign that your menstrual cycle is normal as your body prepares for a possible pregnancy. The uterine walls develop a thick lining while the ovaries release ovum for fertilization. If fertilization doesn’t occur, the body sheds this uterine build-up lining. The average menstrual cycle for most women is 24 days to 28 days, and a normal period lasts 4-8 days.
Maintaining good menstrual hygiene is necessary to prevent skin irritations, infections, and other health issues. It can help boost your self-esteem, self-confidence, and ensure that you feel comfortable about your bodies when menstruating. Here are the top five tips for maintaining hygiene during periods.
1. Wash up with PH-balanced or mild soap
Taking a daily shower is something you need to stay clean during your period week. However, you don’t have to implement a complicated cleansing routine. Just wash your vulva with unscented, mild soap. You don’t need to scrub. Gentle cleansing is all you need.
2. Change your tampon or pad regularly
Your period isn’t the time to make some items last long. It is recommended to change your pad every 3-4 hours. In case of heavy flow, change the pad frequently to maintain good hygiene. Similarly, ladies who use tampons should change it every 4-8 hours or more frequently if they have a heavy flow.
If you use a menstrual cup, you have the chance to know your period and your body better. In just one to three cycles, you will know the days that are heaviest and how often you should change your menstrual cup every day. Some of the factors that affect your menstrual cycle or period include stress, aging, birth control techniques, change in medication, and seasons. Menstrual cups give you the chance to measurably find out how any of these factors affect your cycle.
3. Carry spare underwear
It is recommended to keep a spare pair of underwear in your purse. An unanticipated leak or stain, particularly when outdoors, can derail your plan for that day. It’s smart to have a clean backup pair in your purse. It will go a long way to help you feel dry and fresh all day long.
4. Doubling up isn’t a good idea
If you expect a long day in class or office, the chances are that you will worry about not having sufficient time for the bathroom to change your pad or tampon. This leads many ladies to use both a tampon and pad just in case the tampon leaks. Unfortunately, using two period protection methods at once will not encourage you to change your tampon often enough. Therefore, it is best to ensure that you have sufficient time for bathroom breaks.
5. Choose eco-friendly options
There is a possibility that you have stuck with the same brand of tampons or pads you have been used since your menarche. If the idea of having all those used tampons and pads ending in a landfill makes you uncomfortable, you can consider eco-friendly period protection options.
Some menstrual period experts recommend reusable pads are they are comfortable and economical. Besides, a growing number of women is turning to reusable, flexible menstrual cups. The point is, you have the option to ensure your menstrual flow week hygienic and environmentally-friendly.
6. Wash your hands before and after using the restroom
This is a no brainer – it is important to double up handwashing during your period. Washing your hands before and after emptying your menstrual cup, changing tampon or pad ensures maximum cleanliness. Remember, your hands come into contact with different surfaces each day, and you don’t want to introduce harmful bacterial to your V-area.
7. Replace your towels frequently
Here is something you rarely think about. Using a fresh towel to dry off your V-area helps prevent contact with the harmful bacteria that hang around damp clothes. Keep in mind that maintain good hygiene during and after periods can ward off potential infections.
8. Clean your menstrual cup
If you prefer a menstrual cup, keeping it clean will ward off some vaginal infections. It is recommended to wash your cup in between uses with mild soap and warm water. Don’t scrub it using harsh materials or use harsh soaps. Remember, improper menstrual cup hygiene could result in worse issues than leaking.
9. Keep the cleanup process simple
There are different douches, sprays, and other products to help freshen up down there. However, accumulating scientific evidence suggests that douching can lead to various health issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease, bacterial vaginosis, preterm births, and more. Mild soap and water are enough to clean your V-area.
Summary
Maintaining good hygiene during your period is easy if only you implement the tips discussed in this article. You may want to consult with your doctor if you have menstrual problems or other issues related to your vaginal health.