6 menstrual hygiene practices you shouldn’t ignore 

Menstrual hygiene is pertinent for every woman. It is the only way you can prevent yourself from infections and reduce odours. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), menstrual health and hygiene include having access to safe and hygienic disposal, hand-washing facilities, and access to health services.

As a biological process, menstruation needs to be safely managed so it won’t impact your life negatively. Regardless of the product you use (sanitary pads, menstrual cups) and their quality, adequate hygiene should be practiced.

Here are the menstrual hygienepractices  you should practice regularly:

1. Change frequently 

Do you know it is unhygienic for you to wear a sanitary pad for too long, regardless of whether your flow is heavy or light? If you’re the type that uses a tampon, you shouldn’t wear it for more than 8 hours. 

For menstrual cups, ensure you clean and sanitize them after use. You can place them in boiled water for about two minutes. Lastly, period underwear should be cleaned thoroughly, especially reusable underwear.

2. Keep your vaginal clean

This is so important. You must thoroughly wash your vagina and the outside of it all the time. Water is the best way to do this. You start or wash from the front (vagina) to the back. As a self-cleaning organ, your vagina does not need chemicals to keep it clean. It could cause bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. 

3. Wash your hands

Always wash your hands during your period. Before using your menstrual product, ensure your hands are clean and even after using the restroom to change or get rid of the product. When you change your pad without washing your hands, you’re inviting bacteria into your body. It can cause a yeast infection. 

4. Dispose appropriately 

Do not keep used menstrual products around. Instead, wrap them up and discard in a bin. Unsafe disposal exposes others to health risks, especially waste workers. Maintain high menstrual hygiene by not throwing pads out in public.

5. Avoid tight underwear 

Tight underwear during menstruation could give room for germs to grow, enabling moisture and heat. You should wear cotton underwear or breathable clothing.

6. Drink enough liquids

Another menstrual hygiene you should uphold is drinking enough liquids. This can prevent you from having yeast infections. It can also help wash your urinary tract. Hydration actually lessens body aches, cramps, and headaches.