Personal hygiene can be an uncomfortable topic to talk about. We’re all human and we all have a personal responsibility to keep up with our own personal hygiene. One personal hygiene topic that may appear especially uncomfortable to talk about is menstrual hygiene. Talking about personal hygiene is how we educate ourselves and others on the topic. It is how we avoid facing negative consequences of poor hygiene and continue to keep up with it. Women should have the liberty to speak freely about menstrual health and hygiene.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website has great information on how to keep up with your personal hygiene during your menstrual cycle. When it comes to applying and wearing a menstrual product, Whether it’s a pad, tampon, cup, or underwear, remember to follow the instructions and wash and replace the items as recommended! Unscented products will be your best friend during this time. This goes for toilet paper, pads, and tampons as scented products can cause irritation and pH imbalance. Believe it or not, what you wear also impacts your menstrual hygiene. Cotton and lightweight clothing is recommended as tight clothing and underwear can cause unwanted bacterial growth. Hydration is key on any day but it is also key during your menstrual cycle! It is also important to know that the vagina is self-cleaning. Using soap or other cleaning products on your genital area can cause potential infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Although infections caused by improper menstrual hygiene can be treated, its best to avoid them altogether!
Other Items to Consider
Whenever certain things seem unusual, it’s best to act! For example, experiencing extreme pain or unusually heavy flows is reason enough for you to either visit an ER or make an appointment with your primary healthcare provider. Remember to take it easy during these days! I like to stock up on my favorite snacks, dark chocolate, and teas. I usually keep a heating pad handy as well.