Even though menstruation is such a big part of a woman’s life, it is still considered a taboo in many societies. Taboos, myths and restrictions associated with it leave a negative impact. Here are a few tips on how to maintain menstrual hygiene
For some women, menstruation may just be that time of the month when they must submit to cramps, bear some discomfort and probably not wear light-coloured clothes. Howbeit, for millions of others, this biological process can equate to abuse (the onset of menstruation can signal that a girl is ready for marriage and childbearing, even if she is still a child herself), stigma (banished to menstruation huts, barred from sharing meals) and missed opportunity (skipping school or work because of pain and/or lack of personal hygiene products).
One among the several responsible initiatives to support menstrual health and hygiene, is the Menstrual Hygiene Day which is celebrated on May 28. The date signifies the average 28-day menstrual cycle and May being the fifth month of the year, stands for the average of five days women menstruate for each month. The day is meant to advance menstruation as a normal biological process so that women can go through it without being cast out or missing out, without feeling fear or shame and without being treated any less and exposed to more vulnerabilities.
It also raises awareness about period poverty or the inability of millions of girls to afford the basic menstrual supplies needed to manage health and hygiene with dignity during this period.
Menstrual Hygiene Day is especially dedicated to informing and educating people about the importance and awareness of menstrual hygiene management. Women menstruate for an average of four to six days a month for approximately 40 years. Even though menstruation is such a big part of a woman’s life, it is still considered a taboo in many societies. Taboos, myths and restrictions associated with menstruation leave a negative impact.
It is time to break the silence, create awareness and normalise menstruation for everyone around.
Here are a few alarming myths:
Myth: Women shed impure blood when menstruating
Fact: This is a common misconception that period blood is dirty or impure. However, what most people fail to understand is that the menstrual cycle is part of a woman’s reproductive system that prepares her body for a (possible) pregnancy. The menstrual blood is also the same blood that circulates throughout the body.
Myth: Any form of physical activity can disturb the menstrual flow
Fact: Exercising and playing sports can actually help to relieve the pain. There is no scientific evidence that exercising while you are on your period can harm your physical health
Myth: Girls on their period should sleep in a separate room or space
Fact: Periods are not contagious and cause no harm to anybody else
Myth: You shouldn’t wash your hair during your period
Fact: You don’t need to compromise with your personal hygiene habits due to your periods. There is no study that states one cannot wash her hair or take a shower on her period. In fact, a warm bath can help you with the painful cramps
Myth: Don't use heat to reduce cramps pain; it can affect hormone levels
Fact: Heat therapy is one of the best ways to relieve menstrual cramps. Cramp Comfort Heat Patch by Nua is the perfect example to share, these patches are inspired by a hot water bag designed to fit your life. It is a self-heating patch that emits soothing heat for up to eight hours and hugs your body to give you relief from cramps
Basic Menstrual Hygiene Do’s: vChange sanitary pads every four to six hours to avoid any infection. Changing sanitary pads within every four to six hours is the basic rule to establish vaginal hygiene. Menstrual blood, when released from the body, attracts various organisms from our bodies; multiplying the warmth of the blood and causing irritation or rashes.
Change panties to keep it hygienic and fresh down there. Keep separate underwear to be used during your period. If stained, wash it immediately and disinfect it. It is not hygienic to walk around in stained underwear. Keep an extra pair handy when you are going out, just in case you need it.
How to choose right pads according to your flow?
Understanding your body and menstrual cycle is the first step towards choosing the right pads for yourself. The flow is not exactly the same throughout your period, it starts with heavier then proceeds to medium and ends with light flow. You have to choose a sanitary pad according to your needs and flow.
The first time you get your period, you might want to try a regular-sized pad but if the regular size seems to be filling up too quickly, try a longer pad. It totally depends on the body shape and flow whether you need an extra-long pad with broad hip-guard or a regular one. There are some products like customisable pads available. Nua helps you choose your pack according to your flow.
It is customisable! So, if two out of your five days are heavy flow, one is medium and two are light, you customise accordingly. This will make your periods hassle-free and a comfortable experience.
Nameeta Saigal, Marketing Head, Nua