Menstruation Hygiene Simplified
Are you bothered about the school-going daughters getting menstruations? It’s a whole new experience for every episode of periods. Parents tend to be extra cautious about the movement, pain, dresses they wear, and many questions as a family we, need to address.
Let’s touch upon this one by one:
Is Menstrual Blood the same as Normal Blood?
Menstrual blood is made up of blood and a membrane from the uterus. If we don’t get pregnant during our cycle, the membrane that was created to support the possibly fertilized egg slowly departs our body. Sometimes blood can appear clotted or brown, but that is all normal.
While period blood is made up of normal blood, it is not the same as the blood we get when we get a cut, thus there is no reason to be afraid of menstrual blood.
Does Menstrual Blood Smell Bad?
Sometimes there can be a bad smell due to bacteria that grow in underpants’ moist, warm environment. Changing the pad regularly (once every 3-5 hours, or whenever the pad is full) will help keep bad smells away and reduce the risk of infection.
Are Cramps Normal?
Yes. We may get abdominal cramping and a heavy feeling. Cramps occur when our uterus contracts to get rid of menstrual blood. Our breasts can also feel heavy and tender. Light exercise, hot water bottles, and warm baths can all help to reduce the effects of cramps. If the pain gets worse please visit a nearby health specialist.
What is Vaginal Discharge?
It is normal for us to have discharge during our menstrual cycle. Discharge can be clear or yellowish. Discharge is protective because it can stop bacterial from entering our vagina. discharge changes to a strange color, or becomes smelly, that can mean that we have an infection and need to go have a check-up at a health facility.
Let’s Find Out the Best Ways to Manage the Periods:
Be prepared; keep disposable or reusable pads handy to absorb blood. Disposable pads are available in a variety of types, including those with wings, thin pads, and thick pads. There are also material pads that you can wash and reuse. It’s important to use the one that seems the most comfortable to you.
Change your pad one every 3 to 5 hours, and more regularly if needed. Always keep spare pads in your school bag, even if it’s not time for your period. It is better to be prepared, especially at school.
After using the toilet or changing pads, wash your hands with soap and water.
Wash the vagina during bathing, while changing pads with water & soap. Use a calendar to mark your menstrual cycle so that you can predict your next menstruation.
To avoid infection, wipe the vaginal area from front to back. Don’t put perfume, cream or other products on the vagina. If you notice a change like discharge a weird colour or funny smell, or the vagina feels itchy or hot, make sure you go for a consultation with the gynaecologist in case you have an infection.
What to do When You Are Scared of Staining?
Most girls experience this at least once in a lifetime. If you have a jacket, you can tie it around your waist to hide the stain. You may twist your skirt over so the stain is on the side if you don’t have a jacket. That way, no one will notice. Then, change your pad quickly so no more blood leaks. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to change pads regularly and always carry spare pads in your bag.
Carry dark coloured large scarfs to wrap around, take the help of peers to help you out in this regard.