Hello there, today we are answering the most pressing questions relating Good hygiene during periods; why you should wash your genitals, using pads, managing odours, and lots more!
Menstruation is also known by the terms menstrual period, cycle or period is the monthly shedding of the lining of a woman’s uterus (more commonly known as the womb).
The menstrual blood which is partly blood and partly tissue from the inside of the uterus flows from the uterus through the cervix and out of the body through the vagina.
Should you wash your Genitals often to maintain Perfect Hygiene During your Menstrual Periods?
Yes! Blood can offer a favourable surroundings for bacteria to thrive, that is why health care providers recommend rinsing the genital area with clean water at least twice a day morning and evening while on your period. It is advised to do this more often if you feel uncomfortable.
Why do gynaecologists recommend using water during periods?
The vagina is a self-cleansing organ that balances the good and bad bacteria. It is important to preserve its natural flora, therefore using a regular soap or even specific cosmetic products for intimate hygiene can disrupt them. Health care providers recommend washing the genital area with warm water without soap.
How to Wash the Genitals area?
You should wash the genitals from front to back. Start by washing your labia and then proceed to the perineum and anus. This will reduce the likelihood of pathogenic microorganisms and traces of fecal matter entering the vaginal area.
Should you bathe while on your period?
Absolutely! people who are menstruating can safely take their baths. Usually, running water is perfectly fine. But if you have any reproductive health problems, it’s a good idea to consult a health care provider before soaking in the tub. If you do choose to take a bath while on your period, follow these steps for the safest experience:
- Ensure the bathtub is clean, as your immune system is more susceptible to infection during menstruation.
- Use warm water — not hot. Hot water may provoke heavier bleeding.
- Wash your genitals before sitting in the tub (for example, rinse off under the shower).
How can you manage odours using a feminine hygiene deodorant?
Any contact between the vulva and the chemicals contained in any sanitary products, including feminine hygiene deodorants, should be minimized because it can breed room for infections. Instead, you can use wet wipes or rinse your genital area with water.
Feminine hygiene deodorants and sprays can trigger vaginitis (its symptoms include itching, redness, and abnormally heavy vaginal discharge).
What Types of wipes are safe to Use During Periods
Alcohol free wipes are the safest to use. You can replace toilet paper with wet wipes, which are softer and more delicate.
You should choose products that are free from alcohol and fragrance and have a balanced pH level, as these ingredients can irritate your skin and mucous membranes.
What should you do after changing your sanitary Product.
To avoid transferring any bacteria on the hygiene product to the body via your hands, wash your hands after changing a menstrual product.
Some sanitary products come in contact with the anal area. As a result, they can get contaminated by intestinal bacteria. This could be very harmful and cause illnesses.
When and How Long Should you Use Sanitary Products?
During the day, you are more active this will make your menstrual flow is heavier, therefore the pad absorbs more blood, sweat, and sebum. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which is why you shouldn’t wear one pad for more than four hours.
At night while you are asleep, your bodily functions slow down, and the bleeding intensity decreases, so you can comfortably wear a pad overnight. Although, it is advisable not use tampons for more than eight hours. They’re associated with a risk of toxic shock syndrome, a severe infection.
How to dispose a used Sanitary Products?
To minimize any smell and prevent the spread of bacteria, which can build up over time, roll up a used pad, enclose it in the wrapper of the new one or in toilet paper, and then throw it away. (For tampons, just wrapping them in toilet paper is enough.)
Should You Flush sanitary Product Down the Toilets?
If you find yourself in a bathroom with no trash bin, you can take the used pad (tampon) with you and throw it away somewhere else. Flushing even the smallest hygiene product can easily clog a pipe or sewer.
