Menstruation is as natural as breathing, yet it remains one of the most taboo topics across the globe. Conversations around menstrual hygiene are either awkwardly whispered or avoided altogether, leaving women and girls to manage this essential biological process in silence. Talking about it is not just about health—it’s about dignity, empowerment, and human rights.
Let’s start with the basics. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800 million women and girls are menstruating every day worldwide. That’s right—almost a billion people, yet discussions about periods are still seen as “icky.”
Let’s get one thing straight: Talking about menstruation is not icky! It can save lives. The risks of poor menstrual hygiene range from fungal infections to urinary tract infections, and, in extreme cases, reproductive health complications.
There are various types of menstrual products available for managing your period, such as sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and period underwear. It’s essential to follow proper hygiene when using these products, including washing your hands before and after use, and disposing of used products properly by wrapping them in toilet paper and discarding them in a trash bin. Pads should be changed every few hours, while tampons should be replaced every 4 to 8 hours, with the lowest absorbency needed to avoid health risks. Menstrual cups need daily cleaning and thorough sanitization after each period, and reusable period underwear should be washed according to product instructions.
Maintaining menstrual hygiene is vital for staying healthy and comfortable. Wearing breathable clothing, such as cotton underwear, and changing menstrual products regularly helps prevent infections caused by trapped moisture. It’s also important to keep the genital area clean by washing the outside (vulva) daily with water, wiping from front to back, and avoiding scented products that may disrupt the natural pH balance.
Staying hydrated supports overall health, while monitoring your period can reveal underlying health conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues. Period tracking apps or calendars can be helpful for this.
Routine healthcare is crucial for reproductive health. Annual wellness exams, including pap smears, pelvic exams, and breast exams, are necessary for early detection of potential issues, such as cancer. Additionally, any significant changes in vaginal odor, extreme pain, or unusual period symptoms should prompt a visit to a doctor for further evaluation. These practices ensure overall well-being during your menstrual cycle and beyond.
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