World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2020: 9 Basic Menstrual Hygiene Tips

Globally, World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed on May 28. This day aims to increase awareness of the importance for girls and women to maintain proper hygiene during menstruation. It also intends to raise awareness about the challenges women and girls face due to menstruation and highlight solutions that will deal with these challenges. In this article, we will talk about the menstrual hygiene tips that should be followed during menstruation.

The World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2020 theme is #PeriodsInPandemics. The word menstruation remains a taboo in India which was incredibly and evidently portrayed in the movie 'Padman'.

Despite several efforts, the stigma attached to menstruation still remains.

A woman's menstrual cycle is a healthy biological process, yet in many cultures in India, it's still considered to be dirty and impure. Most women remain unhygienic during their periods like they wear the same sanitary napkin for the whole day or not cleaning the genital area properly.

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Read here to know the basic menstrual hygiene tips

1. Change Pads Often

Menstrual blood can make your pad damp and wet. The warm and moist area can become a breeding ground for organisms and they may tend to multiply and can lead to health problems like vaginal infections, urinary tract infections, and skin rashes.

2. Wash Your Vagina Regularly

During your periods it is also essential that you clean your vagina because when you menstruate, the blood tends to stick to the skin in around the opening of the vagina and this blood should be washed in order to keep your vagina clean. In addition, washing will remove bad odour from the vaginal region.

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3. Avoid Using Soaps

The vagina can clean itself on its own and works very well in balancing the good and bad bacteria. Washing the vaginal area with soap can kill the good bacteria, thereby paving the way for infections. Instead, wash the area with lukewarm water and you can use a mild soap on the external parts but don't use it inside your vagina.

4. Choose Your Method Of Sanitation

If you prefer using a tampon, ensure that you choose one that has the lowest absorbency rate for your period flow. It is advisable to stick to one type and brand of sanitary napkin as frequent switching of brands can make your vagina feeling uncomfortable.

5. Use The Right Washing Technique

Always wash the area in a motion that is from the vagina to the anus; do not wash in the opposite direction. If you wash in the opposite direction the bacteria from the anus can come in contact with the vagina and urethral opening, leading to infections.

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6. Discard the Sanitary Pad Properly

Discard your used napkins and tampons properly because they are capable of spreading infections. It is recommended to not flush the pad or tampon down the toilet, instead wrap it properly before discarding it.

7. Have A Bath Daily

In some cultures, many girls or women aren't allowed to take a bath during periods. But, having a bath during your periods is important as it not only cleanses your body but also gives you a chance to clean your vagina as well. In addition, having a bath in lukewarm water will help you get rid of menstrual cramps.

8. Get Rid Of Pad Rash

Most women will experience pad rash during a heavy flow and it usually occurs when the pad has been wet for a very long time and rubs along the thighs, causing skin abrasion. To prevent this, change your pad frequently throughout the day.

9. Wear Comfortable Clothes

Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes during your periods as it will make you feel comfortable. This will ensure proper airflow as well as prevent sweating around the sensitive area.

On this World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2020, follow the above basic menstrual hygiene tips and learn to take care of yourself during menstruation.

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