Periods can be physically and mentally taxing, and you may not feel like doing anything beyond the bare minimum for survival on those days. 

However, it is even more important for you to take care of personal hygiene while you are on your period. 

Tips to Maintain Personal Hygiene During Your Periods

  • Use any one menstrual product, either a sanitary napkin (disposable or reusable), tampon, menstrual cup, or period underwear. Do not opt for more than one menstrual product at once.

  • Change your sanitary napkin or tampon frequently, and clean and disinfect your menstrual cup or period underwear between every use. 

  • Clean your vulva (the outer part of your genitals) with water frequently and make sure the blood in and around the vulva is washed away.

  • Dispose of your napkins and tampons hygienically. Wrap them in their cover or toilet paper before throwing them away. Do not flush down any menstrual product. 

  • Wash your hands with soap after cleaning yourself or handling a menstrual product. 

If you do not take care of your hygiene during your periods, your health can be adversely affected. Let’s see how.

Repercussions of Unhealthy Menstrual Practices

1. Rashes

The main reason for rashes, a very common problem during your periods, is not changing your sanitary napkins frequently. 

The prolonged wetness and the plastic content of the menstrual pads can cause your skin to become irritated and can even lead to dermatitis (skin inflammation with swelling, redness, and itchiness).

2. Urine Infection

Not keeping yourself clean during menstruation means inviting lots of bacteria. 

Introduction of the bacteria into your urethra may cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs can even damage your kidneys if left untreated.

3. Abnormal White Discharge 

Some discharge from the vagina is generally considered normal. 

However, poor hygiene during menstruation creates a perfect environment for bacteria to proliferate in your vagina and may lead to bacterial vaginosis, which could cause an abnormal white discharge. 

The actual cause of the vaginal discharge will have to be diagnosed by a doctor. 

4. Chances of Infertility

Improper hygiene during your period can cause bacteria to thrive in your vagina, which may lead to reproductive tract infections (RTIs). 

If left untreated, RTIs can lead to problems such as infertility. 

5. Rare Chances of Cervical Cancer 

Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cervix (the lower end of the uterus), which, in most cases, is caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).

Even though it is a rare possibility, poor hygiene during periods increases the incidence of UTIs and RTIs and can make you more susceptible to cervical cancer. 

Take good care of your health and maintain proper hygiene at all times. If you develop any unusual symptoms during your periods, consult a gynaecologist immediately.


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.