Menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life for billions around the world. Yet, due to a lack of open conversation and accessible information, many individuals make common menstrual hygiene mistakes that can lead to discomfort, infections, and even long-term health issues. At naturekrafted, we believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge to manage their periods safely and confidently.
This guide will shed light on five often-overlooked menstrual hygiene practices and provide simple, actionable steps to avoid them. By adopting these habits, you can ensure a healthier and more comfortable menstrual cycle.
1. Infrequent Changing of Menstrual Products
One of the most prevalent mistakes is not changing menstrual products frequently enough. Whether you use sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, leaving them in for too long can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors, skin irritation, and potentially serious infections like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
How to Avoid It:
- Set a Schedule: As a general rule, change your sanitary pad every 4-6 hours and your tampon every 4-8 hours. For menstrual cups, it’s recommended to empty and clean them every 8-12 hours, depending on your flow.
- Listen to Your Body: On heavier flow days, you’ll need to change your products more frequently. Don’t wait for a leak to remind you.
- Overnight Protection: Opt for products specifically designed for overnight use, which offer higher absorbency. However, it’s crucial to change them first thing in the morning.
2. The Lure of Scented Products
Many menstrual products are marketed with added fragrances to mask period odor. While this might seem appealing, these scents are often created with a cocktail of chemicals that can disrupt the delicate pH balance of your vagina. This can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, and an increased risk of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
How to Avoid It:
- Go Fragrance-Free: Always opt for unscented and chemical-free menstrual products. Your vagina is self-cleaning, and a mild odor is natural.
- Focus on Cleanliness: The best way to manage odor is through regular and proper hygiene practices, not by masking it with artificial scents.
3. Neglecting Hand Hygiene
It’s a simple step that’s surprisingly easy to forget. Not washing your hands before and after changing your menstrual product can transfer harmful bacteria to your genital area, increasing the risk of infections.
How to Avoid It:
- Wash, Wash, Wash: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after inserting or changing any menstrual product.
- Hand Sanitizer in a Pinch: If soap and water aren’t readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
4. Over-Cleaning or Using Harsh Soaps
While keeping your intimate areas clean is important, over-cleaning or using harsh, perfumed soaps can do more harm than good. Your vagina has a natural self-cleaning mechanism and maintains a specific pH balance to protect itself from infections. Harsh cleansing products can strip away the good bacteria, leaving you more vulnerable to irritation and infections.
How to Avoid It:
- Water is Your Best Friend: For daily cleaning, use plain, warm water to gently wash the external genital area (the vulva).
- Mild, Unscented Soap (Externally Only): If you choose to use soap, ensure it’s mild, pH-balanced, and specifically designed for intimate use. Only use it on the external areas and avoid getting it inside the vagina.
- Ditch the Douching: Douching is unnecessary and harmful. It flushes out the healthy bacteria and can push infections further up into the reproductive system.
5. Improper Cleaning of Reusable Products
Reusable menstrual products like menstrual cups and cloth pads are fantastic, eco-friendly options. However, they require diligent cleaning and sterilization to prevent the growth of bacteria and a host of potential infections.
How to Avoid It:
- Follow the Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and sterilizing your specific product.
- Daily Cleaning: During your cycle, rinse your menstrual cup with clean water every time you empty it. You can also use a mild, oil-free, and fragrance-free soap. For cloth pads, rinse them thoroughly after use before washing.
- Sterilize Between Cycles: At the end of your period, it’s crucial to sterilize your menstrual cup by boiling it in water for 5-10 minutes. Ensure your cloth pads are completely washed and dried before storing them in a clean, breathable bag.
By being mindful of these common mistakes and adopting these simple yet effective hygiene practices, you can take control of your menstrual health. A period shouldn’t be a source of stress or discomfort. With the right knowledge and habits, you can navigate your cycle with confidence and ease.
Visit our website to explore our range of safe and healthy menstrual products designed with your well-being in mind.