YD News/Menstrual Hygiene Day: Dos and don’ts for first-timers / Three minutes read
Menstrual Hygiene Day: Dos and don’ts for first-timers
Menstruation is one of the most important bodily functions for women. As a result, it’s no surprise that the thought of our first period makes us nervous, and we frequently overlook the need of maintaining excellent menstrual hygiene.
Failure to maintain excellent menstrual hygiene can lead to a number of health issues. According to Dr. Nitin Gupte, the gynecologist at Apollo Spectra Pune. “Menstruation is a vital and necessary activity that deserves to be paid the attention it deserves. “It can lead to allergies and vaginal infections if you don’t take the utmost care during your period,” he added. Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022, observed annually on May 28.
A UNICEF study shows that in India inadequate awareness about menstrual hygiene compels 23% of girls to drop out of school. After they start menstruating. This is a stage that scares girls as to how to go about their first period as they lack knowledge of basic hygienic practices in menstruation.
This Menstrual Hygiene Day, promise yourself a happy and healthy period by understanding your body better.
Mensurational Hygiene Day Do’s and Don’ts for first-timers
Choose your sanitation method
Each woman should pick a product that offers her the most comfort, whether it’s sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. It must keep in mind that only one method of sanitation must be used at a time. Using multiple ones can lead to rashes, infections, or even Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Ask questions to the right person
Girls who experience their periods for the first time are going to have a lot of questions. Which should be address straight immediately.” It is vital to recognize that they will require effective guidance in order to attain the importance of menstrual hygiene. Seeing a professional or a doctor is always the best option.
Don’t let anxiety get in your way
At all times, make sure your body is calm and comfortable. Make the decision to be comfortable and well-rested. Try to see past any established stereotypes that suggest women should avoid engaging in activities on certain days. We must urge women to remain active and show that menstruation does not prevent them from living full lives. With the availability of a variety of services and goods on the market, comfort and hygiene may still go hand in hand during these times.
Bathe regularly
Bathing regularly during periods is important as it removes the excess blood that could cause an infection. It can also help alleviate the mood and reduce menstrual cramps. You can also relieve your period pain through mild heat therapy. For cleansing, a gentle foaming cleanser can be used to eliminate infection-causing bacteria, while preserving the good ones you need for a healthy vulva.
Always be ready with a go-to kit
Having a multi-purpose pouch with intimate care products will undoubtedly meet the demand for utmost comfort and convenience. Following your first period, it’s best to keep track of the following period date using applications that will track your cycles on a regular basis.
Common issues arise as a result of poor hygiene during mensuration
Yeast infection
It’s a good idea to wash your hands after changing sanitary napkins. It can aid in the prevention of yeast infections.
Fungal infections
Using a pad, cup, or tampon for a longer period of time may lead to fungal infections. The germs will grow and multiply as a result of the wet pad. As a result, you are more likely to get urinary infections, vaginal infections, and those unpleasant skin rashes. Sensitive skin may also be affected by the pad liner.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
If the tampon is left in for too long, toxic shock syndrome (TSS) may develop, which is a painful medical condition caused by a bacterial infection.
Bacterial vaginosis
It is a type of vaginal inflammation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria naturally found in the vagina and upsets the natural balance. Lack of hygiene during periods can lead to this worrisome condition.
Follow these hygiene tips during your periods
- Don’t forget to change the sanitary pad or tampon after every five hours. Wash your menstrual cup as instructed by the expert. The size of menstrual cups may need a few sitting, so if you are using a cup then speak to a gynecologist
- It is essential for you to keep your vagina clean. Wipe from front to back. Additionally, you must wear clean cotton underwear while on your periods.
- The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, as we all know. As a result, avoid douching. Avoid using any chemical or perfumed items in that area. Also, don’t use soap because it might trigger an infection.
Also Read: Monkeypox: All you need to know about this viral infection