Periods. We get it. They can be messy, uncomfortable, and overwhelming, but they are a natural part of our life. It's time to fight the stigma! Let's talk about our menstrual cycles. With a few simple practices and the right knowledge, you can navigate your period with confidence and maintain optimal hygiene throughout. This guide will equip you with everything you need to feel fresh and comfortable during your monthly flow.
Maintaining Hygiene During Your Period
- Frequent Changes: The cornerstone of good menstrual hygiene is changing your menstrual product regularly. It is important to replace pads and liners every 4-6 hours, or more frequently, if heavily saturated. Tampons and menstrual cups should be changed every 4-8 hours, depending on your flow.
- Gentle Cleansing: During your period, cleanse the vulva (the external area) with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Harsh soaps can disrupt the delicate vaginal pH balance, so avoid using them in the genital area. Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel – avoid rubbing, which can irritate the skin. If you're looking for a gentle vaginal cleanser, we recommend our Refresh Plant Based Intimate Body Wash. Our body wash balances and maintains the vagina's pH, keeping you fresh and confident!
- Wiping Wisely: Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina. Choose unscented, hypoallergenic wipes for added convenience, but avoid relying solely on wipes for cleansing.
- Shower Power: While soaking in a bath might sound tempting, showers are generally preferred during your period. Baths can trap bacteria, whereas showers allow for better hygiene.
- Comfortable Clothing: Opt for breathable cotton underwear that allows for airflow and prevents irritation. Tight-fitting clothing can trap moisture and discomfort.
Recommended Products for Menstrual Care
The menstrual care aisle offers a variety of products to suit your needs and preferences. Here's a rundown of popular options:
- Pads: Pads are comfortable and user-friendly, ideal for light to moderate flow days. Choose organic cotton pads with a hypoallergenic top sheet for added comfort and breathability.
- Liners: Liners are perfect for spotting or light discharge. Opt for pantyliners made from breathable materials like cotton.
- Tampons: Tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow. They come in various absorbencies to suit your flow. Always ensure you're using the correct absorbency for your needs and change tampons frequently to avoid TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome).
- Menstrual Cups: Menstrual cups are reusable silicone cups that collect menstrual fluid. They are a sustainable and cost-effective option in the long run. However, proper insertion and removal are crucial to prevent leakage and infections.
- Period Underwear: Period underwear is absorbent underwear designed to collect menstrual flow. They come in various absorbencies and offer a comfortable, leak-proof experience.
- Our Products: Seriously! We make all our products to help keep you feeling fresh, especially when you are on your period. Our products are safe, gentle, and will keep you fresh in all the right ways. Try our Balance Bundle! It's a combination of our best-selling products, all formulated to keep you feeling your best!
Tips for Preventing Infections
Maintaining good hygiene practices during your period is vital for preventing infections. Here are some additional tips:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after changing your menstrual product.
- Avoid sharing tampons or menstrual cups with others.
- Don't leave tampons in for longer than 8 hours.
- Store menstrual products in a clean, dry place.
- Be mindful of public restrooms. Consider using wipes or a portable bidet for added cleansing.
Balancing pH Levels During Menstruation
The vagina naturally maintains a slightly acidic pH level. During menstruation, this pH level can fluctuate slightly. Here's how to support a healthy vaginal pH:
- Avoid Douching: Douching disrupts the natural balance of vaginal bacteria and should be avoided.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and yogurt containing probiotics can contribute to a healthy vaginal microbiome. If you're interested in learning more about a healthy diet to support your vaginal health, check out our other blog on the topic!
- Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Tight-fitting clothing traps moisture and can disrupt the vaginal pH balance.
- Consider a Probiotic Supplement: Consult your doctor if you're considering taking a probiotic supplement to support vaginal health.
- Boric Acid: We have optimally designed our Boric Acid Vaginal Wash and Boric Acid Suppository to help balance your vagina's pH.
Remember: Every woman's body is unique. Listen to your body's needs and experiment with different products and practices to find what works best for you. If you experience any unusual symptoms during your period, such as excessive bleeding, severe cramps, or foul-smelling discharge, consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.
By following these tips and maintaining good hygiene practices, you can ensure a comfortable and confident experience during your menstrual cycle. Remember, your period is a natural and healthy part of being a woman – embrace it!
