Poor menstrual hygiene may increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
Photo Credit: istockphoto
Maintaining intimate hygiene during menstruation may support overall reproductive health.
Good hygiene practices can help women feel fresher and more comfortable during menstruation.
Understanding menstrual hygiene also encourages women and girls to become more aware of their bodies, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive health.
Menstrual hygiene is an important part of women’s health and overall well-being. Maintaining proper hygiene during periods not only helps prevent infections and discomfort but also supports confidence, dignity, and daily comfort. Despite being a natural biological process, menstruation is still surrounded by myths and stigma in many places, making awareness about menstrual hygiene even more important.
Menstrual hygiene refers to maintaining cleanliness and using safe menstrual products during periods. It includes:
Changing sanitary products regularly
Cleaning the intimate area properly
Washing hands before and after changing products
Disposing of used products safely
Wearing clean and comfortable clothing
Good menstrual hygiene practices can help women manage their periods safely and comfortably.
Poor menstrual hygiene may increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. Wearing the same pad or tampon for too long can create a moist environment that allows bacteria to grow.
Changing sanitary products regularly and maintaining cleanliness may help reduce irritation, itching, unpleasant odour, and infection risks.
Maintaining intimate hygiene during menstruation may support overall reproductive health. Proper care helps keep the vaginal area clean and comfortable during periods.
Good hygiene practices can help women feel fresher and more comfortable during menstruation. This may improve confidence while attending school, work, sports, or social activities.
Understanding menstrual hygiene also encourages women and girls to become more aware of their bodies, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive health.
This World Menstrual Hygiene Day, Dr Anubhuti Rana, Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics And Gynecology, AIIMS, New Delhi, highlights the significance of menstrual hygiene in supporting the health, dignity, and well-being of girls and women. 1
The Instagram handle of AIIMS New Delhi shared a video addressing common myths and stigma surrounding menstruation, while underscoring how access to the right information and support can empower women and help ensure greater freedom, confidence, and access to education and opportunities.
Dr Anubhuti Rana said, “Menstrual health is closely connected to a woman’s overall health, well-being, and comfort. Maintaining personal hygiene and good menstrual hygiene is essential to avoid infections and prevent irritation and discomfort. Use of clean and safe menstrual products such as sanitary napkins and menstrual cups, regularly changing them, access to clean water, and maintaining personal hygiene are essential for good health. Beyond physical care, having a good menstrual hygiene can promote emotional well-being and build confidence.”
Dr Anubhuti said, “In some communities, even today, menstruation is surrounded with silence, stigma, and some misconceptions. Even in today’s world, some people believe that women who are menstruating should not enter the kitchens, places of worship, and even isolate themselves from rest of the family. These myths have no scientific basis and can affect the women’s emotional well-being, confidence, freedom, and participation in daily activities. It is important that in today’s era, these myths are challenged by education and public awareness.”
The AIIMS doctor said, “support begins at home with open and honest conversations about menstruation. Families should treat menstruation as a normal biological process rather than something shameful. Use of clean toilets, access to clean water, access to affordable and safe menstrual products are essential for good health. Schools, workplaces, and communities should create a safe and supportive environment for each and every girl and woman to feel confident, respected, and comfortable.
The AIIMS gynecologist said, “No girl should miss school, sports or even daily activities just because of her menses. With the proper knowledge, right facilities, and community support, menstruation should never become a barrier for education or opportunity. So today, let’s break the silence, challenge the myths, and support each and every woman to live with dignity and confidence.
FAQs
How does menstrual hygiene impact women's reproductive health?
Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene supports overall reproductive health by keeping the vaginal area clean and comfortable during periods. This reduces the risk of infections and irritation, promoting healthier reproductive function.
What are the key practices for maintaining good menstrual hygiene?
Key practices include regularly changing sanitary products, cleaning the intimate area properly, washing hands before and after changing products, safely disposing of used items, and wearing clean and comfortable clothing.
How can menstrual hygiene practices improve confidence and daily comfort?
Good menstrual hygiene reduces discomfort, irritation, and unpleasant odors, helping women feel fresher and more comfortable. This boost in personal comfort often enhances confidence during school, work, sports, or social activities.
What role do education and community play in addressing menstrual myths and stigma?
Education and open conversations at home, schools, and workplaces help dispel myths and stigma surrounding menstruation. Creating a supportive environment with access to clean facilities and safe products empowers women to manage menstruation confidently.
Why is access to clean water and safe menstrual products essential for menstrual hygiene?
Access to clean water allows proper cleaning of the intimate area and hands, preventing infections. Safe, affordable menstrual products that are changed regularly reduce health risks and support comfort and dignity during menstruation.
AIIMS New Delhi via Instagram|Importance of menstrual hygiene
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.
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