MENSTRUAL HEALTH & HYGIENE

What is Menstrual Health and why is it important?

According to the National Library of Medicine, Menstrual Health is a

state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not
merely the absence of disease or infirmity, in relation to the menstrual
cycle.

KNOW THE FACTS ABOUT MENSTRUATION

Menstruation (also called a “period”) is a normal biological process

experienced by millions around the world each month.

A period happens when the uterus sheds blood and tissue from the
uterine lining and leaves your body through the vagina.

It occurs in monthly cycles throughout a woman's reproductive life, EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS

except during pregnancy. Menstruation starts during Puberty (at
menarche) and stops permanently at Menopause. (Menopause is A lot happens to your hormones every cycle, which can have an
defined as 1 year after the last menstrual cycle.) impact on your moods. A person can experience irritability,
depression, anxiety and mood swings. These emotional shifts can also
happen before your period, which can be used as an indicator that the
new cycle is about to begin. This is most commonly referred to as
Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS.

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

Your cycle also affects your physical well-being in addition to your

mood. These happenings are also important to write down. Hormone
changes can cause physical symptoms like cramping, breast
tenderness, acne breakouts, bloating, lower back pain, constipation or
diarrhoea, and more.
Good menstrual health involves knowing the signs of
possible issues such as:

 Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a group of symptoms that

happen just before your period and often including mood
swings, food cravings and fatigue.
 Menstrual cramps.
 Irregular periods, when menstruation happens early, late or not
at all.
 Heavy menstrual bleeding.  Discard used disposable menstrual products properly:
wrap them with toilet paper, a tissue, or other material and
Understanding these issues can help you identify abnormalities and then toss in a dust bin. Do not flush menstrual products
know when to talk to your doctor. down the toilet.

MENSTRUAL HYGIENE TIPS

Maintaining these good menstrual hygiene practices can help you

stay healthy and comfortable during your period:
 back, not the other way. Use only water to rinse your vulva.
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Changing the natural pH
balance of your vagina by using chemicals to clean the vagina
can be harmful and may result in an infection. Always use
only unscented toilet paper, tampons, or pads.

 Drink enough liquids. This can help wash out your urinary
tract and help prevent infections, like vaginal candidiasis.

 Track and monitor your period. Your menstrual cycle is a

valuable marker for your overall health. Irregular periods
can be a sign of conditions like diabetes, thyroid
dysfunction, and celiac disease. You can track your period
on a calendar or with an app

 Wear clean lightweight, breathable clothing (such as  Visit a healthcare provider for your annual check-up. An
cotton underwear). Tight-fitting underwear and pants can annual well-woman exam is a full check-up that includes
trap moisture and increase your risk of infection. a pap-smear, a pelvic exam, and a breast exam. These
And change your underwear regularly during menstruation.” medical tests are essential for good reproductive health as
they can catch early signs of cancer or other health issues.
 Change your menstrual products regularly. Trapped
moisture provides a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.  Talk to a doctor if you experience a change in odour, have
Wearing a pad or period underwear for too long can lead to extreme or unusual pain, or have more severe period
a rash or an infection. “Whether you use pads, tampons, symptoms than usual (such as a heavier flow or longer
menstrual cups or another product, change them according period).
to the product’s instructions.
PERIOD PRODUCTS
 Washing hands. Always wash your hands before and after
changing menstrual products. Washing thoroughly with soap Several menstrual products are available, so choose the type that suits
and water can help you maintain proper hygiene and prevent your comfort and lifestyle.
the spread of germs.

 Keep your genital area clean. Wash the outside of your

vagina (vulva) and bottom every day. When you go to the
bathroom, wipe from the front of your body toward the
  Another option is Period Panties, underwear designed with built-in,
absorbent layers to collect menstrual blood. They are reusable,
comfortable and eco-friendly. Period panties come in many styles
and absorbency levels, making them a popular option for those
who prefer an alternative to pads, tampons or menstrual cups.

“By following proper hygiene practices, choosing suitable menstrual

products, educating yourself about menstruation and seeking medical
care when needed, you can have a safe menstrual experience.”

Each year on MAY 28, ‘MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY’ is observed to

highlight good menstrual hygiene practices during your period and to
 ``` `` ` `` ` ` `` ``` ~ `~ raise awareness about the importance of access to menstrual
One of the most popular options is a Menstrual Pad, made of products, period education, and sanitation facilities.
absorbent material and worn in your underwear to collect
menstrual blood. They come in various sizes and thicknesses, and
some are designed for different flow levels.

 Tampons, which are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual

blood, are another option. They come in different sizes and
absorbency levels, so select the right size for your body and flow.
Tampons must be changed every four to eight hours during use to
prevent the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but life-
threatening complication of some bacterial infections.

 Menstrual cups are reusable silicone or rubber cups inserted into

the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They are eco-friendly, cost-
effective and with proper care, can last for several years.
Menstrual cups require cleaning and sanitation after each use to
avoid infection.

 Sanitize menstrual cups after your period is over by rinsing them

thoroughly and then placing them in boiling water for one to two
minutes.
What You Can Do

Spreading awareness in your community about the importance of good

menstrual hygiene habits.Learn more about other hygiene practices to
keep you healthy.i

“Menstrual hygiene is a fundamental aspect of health that

should be prioritized to maintain overall well-being,”
i
`