Menstrual hygiene is vital for women’s reproductive health. Maintaining hygiene during menstruation can help prevent infections, reduce odours and ensure that the woman stays comfortable during this period.¹ According to a study, 88% of women in India sometimes use ashes, newspapers, dried leaves and husk sand to aid absorption.² These unhygienic options should be replaced with safer alternatives and hygienic absorbents such as sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual discs, menstrual cups and period underwear, which help women maintain hygiene during their period.¹

Some essential habits should be practised during every cycle. Sanitary pads should be changed every few hours and tampons every four to eight hours.¹ Wearing a pad or period underwear for a long time may cause a rash or an infection as the trapped moisture serves as a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.¹ The sanitary product should be properly wrapped in tissue or other similar materials after use and disposed in dustbins. They should never be flushed down the toilet.¹ Additionally, hands should be washed before and after using the restroom and handling menstrual products.¹

Wearing lightweight and breathable clothing is preferable as tight clothing can trap moisture and heat, which support the growth of microorganisms.¹ It is very important to wash the private part with water alone as the vagina is a self-cleansing organ. Chemicals used in cleansing products can alter the natural pH balance, which may lead to bacterial or yeast infection.¹

Drinking enough water will help clean the urinary tract and prevent infections. Also, keeping track of the menstrual cycle and getting regular medical check-ups will help in diagnosing serious conditions such as diabetes or celiac disease.¹

Following these routines during each cycle will aid in maintaining hygiene, which is crucial to promoting good health and preventing infections of the reproductive system.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Menstrual hygiene [Internet]. [cited 2023 Mar 03]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/personal-hygiene/menstrual.html.
2. Garg S, Anand T. Menstruation related myths in India: Strategies for combating it. J Family Med Prim Care. 2015;4(2):184–6.