Menstrual Hygiene
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Menstruation is a natural process that every woman goes through. During this time, many women may experience discomfort such as cramps, bloating and fatigue. Proper menstrual hygiene is crucial to maintain personal cleanliness, maintain good health and prevent infections.
Don’t Panic! This article covers all the critical dos and don’ts during periods that you must take care for healthy menstrual cycle.
Menstrual Dos and Don’ts: A Guide for Girls Who Just Got Their Periods
Getting your period for the first time is a big milestone! It’s a natural part of growing up, but it can also be a bit confusing and overwhelming. To help you feel more confident and prepared, here are some simple dos and don’ts that will help you manage your period with ease and keep you feeling comfortable and healthy.
Menstrual Dos:
- Do Stay Clean and Comfortable
During your period, it’s important to stay clean to avoid discomfort and infections. Change your sanitary products (pads, tampons, menstrual cups) regularly to keep things fresh. For pads, try to change them every 4-6 hours, depending on your flow. If you use a tampon, make sure to change it every 4-8 hours, and never leave it in for longer than 8 hours. - Do Use the Right Products for You
There are different menstrual products available, like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. It’s important to use the one that feels most comfortable for you. Pads are usually the most common and easiest to use when you first start your period. If you decide to try tampons or menstrual cups, make sure to learn how to use them properly.
- Do Keep Track of Your Cycle
It can be helpful to keep track of your periods on a calendar or with a period tracker app. This way, you can know when to expect your period and plan ahead. It also helps you understand your body better, so you can notice any changes or irregularities. In case of frequent period irregularities or abnormal menstrual bleeding, it is best to consult a healthcare expert without any delay.
Suggested App- CLUE
- Sleep well
Take proper 8 hours sleep during your periods. Sleeping is the easiest way to relax your body and mind. Sleeping well can ease and help you get over crankiness.
- Do Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated is always important, but it’s especially helpful during your period. Drinking water helps reduce bloating, fatigue, and headaches, which are common during your period. It also helps your body flush out any toxins.
2.5 to 3 liters (8-10 cups) of water per day is typically recommended for most adults.
- Do Rest When You Need To
It’s normal to feel more tired or even a little crampy during your period. Listen to your body and take breaks or naps when you need them. Resting can help you feel better and have more energy throughout the day. - Do Eat Healthy Foods
Eating nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains like wheat, oats can help your body stay balanced during your period. Avoid too much junk food or sugary snacks, as they can make you feel sluggish or bloated. Foods rich in iron, like spinach and beans, can also help replace the iron you might lose during your period.
Orange Juice
- Benefits: High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps in iron absorption (important during menstruation).
Beetroot Juice
- Benefits: Rich in iron, which is vital during menstruation due to blood loss. It also helps boost energy and circulation.
Pineapple Juice
- Benefits: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation and ease menstrual cramps.
- Do Practice Good Hygiene
Wash your hands before and after changing your period product to avoid any infections. Also, make sure to clean the genital area gently with water (no harsh soaps) to avoid irritation or dryness. Taking a shower regularly can help you feel fresh and clean
Menstrual Don’ts:
- Don’t Forget to Change Your Products Regularly
It’s important not to leave your pad, tampon, or menstrual cup on for too long. Doing so can cause irritation or even infections. Regular changes will keep you comfortable and prevent any unpleasant smells or leaks. - Don’t Use Scented Products
Avoid using scented pads, tampons, or sprays. They might smell nice, but they can cause irritation or allergic reactions down there. Stick to unscented, breathable products that are gentle on your skin.
It must be noted that some girls may feel rashes when using cotton pads like that of stayfree but they’re very mild. Nothing to be worried about if they’re troubling you, just use another brands product like whisper which are not cotton based.
- Don’t Stress About Your Period
It’s totally normal to feel nervous or stressed when you first get your period, but try not to worry too much. Periods are a natural part of life and happen to all women. If you’re ever unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to talk to someone you trust, like a parent, guardian, or school nurse. You’re not alone! - Don’t Skip Regular Exercise
While it’s okay to take it easy if you’re feeling crampy or tired, you don’t have to stop exercising during your period. In fact, light exercise like walking, stretching, or yoga can actually help reduce cramps and improve your mood. Just listen to your body and don’t overdo it. - Don’t Wear Tight Clothes That Cause Discomfort
When you’re on your period, try to avoid wearing tight clothing that might add to your discomfort. Opt for loose-fitting clothes that will allow your body to breathe and reduce any bloating or cramps. You don’t need to sacrifice comfort for style! - Don’t Ignore Pain
Some cramping and discomfort are normal during your period, but if you experience severe pain, don’t ignore it. Talk to a trusted adult or see a doctor if the pain becomes unbearable. There are ways to manage period pain, including using a heating pad or taking pain relievers (ask an adult for help with this). - Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you have any questions or concerns about your period, don’t hesitate to ask someone you trust. Whether it’s about your cycle, how to use menstrual products, or anything else, asking questions will help you feel more confident in managing your period.
Final Thoughts
Getting your period for the first time can feel like a big change, but it’s just a part of growing up! By following these simple dos and don’ts, you’ll be able to manage your period with ease and stay healthy and comfortable throughout your cycle. Remember, every girl goes through it, and there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Be kind to yourself, listen to your body, and reach out for help whenever you need it.
Frequently asked questions
- Question– Using Menstrual Cup will lose your virginity
Answer–
you have to insert a menstrual cup in order to use them. Hence, there is a high chance that you might break your hymen when you use them regularly. So if you are concerned of it do not experiment it. Many girls though have reported no breaking of hymen as well.
As a fact hymen is a thin tissue that covers the vagina. The hymen may cover the entire vagina or part of the vagina; some people are born without a hymen at all! The hymen can be worn down over months or years due to bike riding, sports, doctor examinations, tampons, and other activities. A person may be a virgin but not have an intact hymen.
- Question– Is it ok to have physical intimacy during periods?
Answer–
While sex during menstruation can be a bit messy, it can offer some benefits. Engaging in sexual activity during your period can help regulate hormonal levels and quickly improve your mood.
- Question– If I will take pain reliver medicines during my period will it increase my blood flow.
Answer–
Taking pain relievers during your period, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, will not increase your blood flow. These medications are commonly used to reduce period-related pain, including cramps, by addressing inflammation or blocking pain signals, but they do not directly affect menstrual blood flow.
- Question-What are the best menstrual cups available in the market?
Answer-
You can try using Sirona Pro Super Soft Reusable FDA Approved Menstrual Cup or menstrual cups by Sanfe or Pee Safe. All these menstrual cups are made using medical-grade silicone and are safe to use.
Check out Purplle for some incredible products to combat your period woes.
Purplle has an incredible range of sanitary napkins, tampons, menstrual cups, cramp relief roll-ons, and many other products to help you alleviate your period discomfort.