This article is your 101 Guide to Menstrual Health and Hygiene!
Almost every girl sees “that” time of the month as annoying. It is daunting to see that menstruation is still considered taboo in most places.
Menstruation is a normal physiological process in girls which begins during adolescence. It is the shedding of the endometrial lining of the uterus in the form of blood and mucus through the vagina that occurs every month and prepares a woman’s body for pregnancy.
What is Menstrual Health and Hygiene?
It involves adequate access to sanitary products for women, availability of toilets, proper education regarding menstrual hygiene, and safe practices.
Why is Hygiene During Menstruation Important?
Practicing good menstrual hygiene tips can help achieve safe and happy periods and protect women against various reproductive and urinary tract infections.
Menstrual Hygiene Tips
- Change sanitary pads every 4-5 hours to prevent itching and infections.
- Wash the genital area with soap and water. In an attempt to prevent menstrual odour, do not use any talcum powder or deodorant in this area.
- Apart from sanitary napkins, various other menstrual hygiene products can be used to collect the blood flow like tampons, menstrual cups, and cloth pads. Menstrual cups and cloth pads are sustainable and cost-effective options that one can adopt.
- Dispose of menstrual hygiene products properly by wrapping them in paper and throwing them in the dustbin.
Menstrual health and hygiene is not just about the products and hygiene of the vaginal area during menstruation but also about awareness, understanding, clearing stigmas, and boosting confidence.
There have been many incidents from all over the world where it is seen that girls don’t attend school during menstrual days. Some places do not allow women to enter religious ceremonies or places of worship during their periods. Various eating restrictions are also imposed on girls and they are not allowed to play sports many times.
It is the 21st century and many people still look at period blood with disgust! This is a pure shame!
We, as responsible citizens, must make sure that proper education is given to the children regarding health and hygiene during menstruation. Family and teachers must educate not just girls but also boys about this. Girls mustn’t visualize menstruation as a horrifying experience and the taboos around it need to be shattered.
So, let’s talk about menstrual health and hygiene. How do you think awareness regarding this can be spread? Do comment!
