Menstruation is one of the most significant physiological changes that girls experience during their adolescent years.

In girls, menstruation marks the beginning of adulthood. It becomes an inextricable element of their lives until they reach menopause. This phenomenon is significant for every woman.

Menstrual hygiene is a sanitary technique that protects women from infections in their reproductive and urinary tracts while they are menstruating.

Menstruation is fraught with myths and misconceptions in India, with a long list of "do's" and "don'ts" for women.

Taboos and socio-cultural constraints continue to shroud menstruation and menstrual practices, resulting in adolescent girls lacking awareness and remaining unaware of scientific facts and hygienic health practices, which can lead to negative health effects.

Women's hygiene practices during menstruation are critical, as they may increase their exposure to Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs).

Poor menstrual hygiene is a major contributor to female morbidity and contributes greatly to the high prevalence of RTIs in the country. Poor attitude and practice result in a lack of information about menstruation and menstrual hygiene. 

There are a number of concerns that must be addressed simultaneously in order to promote menstrual hygiene, including knowledge, availability, and quality of napkins, regular supply, privacy, water supply, napkin disposal, reproductive health education, and family support. 

Consequences Of Unhealthy Menstrual Practices

# Irritation of the skin causes discomfort and may lead to dermatitis, a medical disorder in which the skin swells, gets red, and occasionally becomes inflamed with blisters.

# Urinary tract infections can be caused by bacteria entering the urethra (UTIs). It can occur anywhere in the urinary tract and can be dangerous if left untreated, as it can destroy the kidneys.

# It is possible for the pH of the vagina to change. This can result in a shift in the environment and an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis. It has the greatest influence on women who are attempting to conceive.

Frequent instances of these infections can have long-term implications, such as trouble conceiving, an increased risk of abortion, and premature birth. As a result, a woman's reproductive life can be jeopardized if she does not maintain right menstrual hygiene.

How To Maintain Menstrual Health:

# Change sanitary napkins or tampons often

The basic guideline for maintaining vaginal cleanliness is to change them every 4-6 hours.

When menstrual blood is shed, it causes discomfort, rashes, and urinary tract infections because of the various organisms growing in our body.

The growth of these organisms is slowed and infections can be avoided by changing your sanitary napkin or tampon on a regular basis.

# Use soaps and vaginal hygiene products sparingly

While using vaginal hygiene products on a daily basis is a good idea, don't overdo it.

During monthly cycles, the vaginal cavity has its own cleansing mechanism, and these artificial hygiene products might obstruct this natural process, resulting in infections and bacterial growth.

# Dispose of sanitary napkins properly

It's critical to properly dispose off your tampons and sanitary napkins. Before throwing them out, wrap them properly to prevent bacteria and illnesses from spreading.

Make sure you don't flush them because they'll clog the toilet and cause the water to back up, spreading bacteria all over the place.

It's just as vital to take care of yourself during menstruation as it is to take care of your daily tasks. A minor lapse in menstrual hygiene management can cause serious injury to your health, as well as serve as a vehicle for the transfer of illness to others.

If there’s any underlying condition or doubt relating to menstrual hygiene and health, it’s better to consult your doctor.