Explained: Menstrual Hygiene: Ways And Important Products To Maintain The Same

Normally a woman ovulates every month i.e., a mature egg is released into the fallopian tubes and awaits fertilisation. However, if fertilisation does not occur, then the thickened lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina.

This shedding is known as menstruation. Maintaining hygiene during this time is imperative as it prevents vaginal infection, urinary tract infections, vulval and vaginal itching, foul smelling discharge and general discomfort. In fact, managing hygiene while menstruating constitutes a key aspect of preventive healthcare.

There are several products which can be used by women during their menstrual cycle to encourage self-care and proper hygiene.

Reusable and washable cloth pads

These are reusable cloth pads, worn like sanitary pads, to collect menstrual fluid. They are free from toxins and chemicals and are made of terrycloth, cotton, and silk. They are sustainable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly products. It is advisable to properly wash and sun-dry the cloth pads after use to prevent contamination and ensure sterilization.

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Sanitary napkins

These are easily available, disposable pieces of soft material used to absorb blood during menstruation. They prevent bacterial infections and are the preferred means of managing a menstrual cycle for many.

Tampons

These are small and cylindrical in shape and are usually made of cotton and rayon. They are inserted easily into the vagina and absorb the menstrual flow. They can be easily and safely disposed off after use.

Menstrual cups

These are the silicon cups that are easy to fold and inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They can be worn for 4-6 hours depending upon the flow. They are reusable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. It is recommended to sterilize the menstrual cups before and after use to avoid infections.

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Bamboo and Banana Fibre pads

These are affordable, easily decomposed, and environment-friendly pads used to absorb the menstrual flow. These are made of natural materials which possess antibacterial properties and are a cost-effective option for rural women.

With the above products, there are some hygiene practices that one should maintain:

1) Changing sanitary napkins or tampons every 4-6 hours is an important step to maintain vaginal hygiene. As the menstrual flow is heavy during the daytime, the pad absorbs more blood and sweat, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, it is important to change the pad every four hours. Following this helps in preventing local infections, irritation, rashes, and urinary tract infection. Along with this, it is very important to properly wrap and dispose of sanitary napkins and tampons in an environmental friendly manner. Washing the hands properly is important after changing the sanitary napkins.

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2) Cleaning the perineum properly at least two times a day is recommended during periods. There is a high chance of bacteria clinging to the body even after one removes the pad.

3) It is advisable to not use scented cosmetic products for intimate hygiene as it may trigger itching and redness. The vagina has a self-cleaning process. It is ideal to wash it with warm water without soap to maintain vaginal hygiene.

4) Wear cotton and loose-fitting clothes to feel fresh and sweat-free. The tight clothing does not allow the space to breathe which causes moisture and heat to trap and allows bacteria to thrive.

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There is a need to keep people informed about how to manage their menstrual hygiene as during this time, a woman¡¯s vulnerability to local infection and diseases increases. Awareness of menstrual hygiene is important for adolescent girls to differentiate between myths and facts.

Additional consideration that should be ensured

1) It is important to ensure availability of sanitary products to adolescent girls and ladies.

2) They also should have access to changing rooms where they can change the sanitary product in privacy

In addition, sanitary products have significant environmental concerns, therefore one should keep the above information in mind to properly dispose of the product after use.

Such menstrual health and hygiene interventions will ensure confidence building and strengthening of sexual & reproductive health among adolescent girls and ladies.

About the author: Dr. Sabhyata Gupta, Chairperson, Gynaecology and Gynae Oncology, Medanta Hospital. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.