Menstrual Hygiene
As mentioned in the Period Poverty blog, girls who don’t use the proper hygiene products, like pads, and instead use dirty rags/leaves, are at a high risk of getting infections and other health problems. Therefore, it's imperative to use the hygiene products that work for you, so you stay comfortable and clean. You can refer to the Menstrual Products blog to see the different products that can be used and the advantages of each: again, use what works best for you!
To stay clean and hygienic, make sure you are replacing your pads/tampons/etc. everytime the product is “full”. For example, if you see your pad is fully soaked, it’s time to get a new one. Here is a general guideline for when you should replace your product to stay hygienic, prevent bad odors, and stop accidental bleedings through clothes (remember, the times can be more or less depending on an individual’s flow):
change your pad every three to four hours - never use the same one
change your tampon every four to eight hours - never use the same one
empty period cups every twelve hours - make sure to empty and sanitize
Overall, make sure you are keeping a track of when to change your product so you stay clean, and use clean water to clean your genitals and hands while replacing the product. By taking these simple steps, you can maintain good health, prevent infections, and keep yourself comfortable.
Sources:
Alison Grajkowski, M.D. “Menstrual Cups Gain Popularity.” Mayo Clinic Health System, 7 July 2022, www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/menstrual-cups-vs-tampons-things-you-might-not-know-about-the-cup.
“Can I Wear the Same Pad All Day? (For Teens) - Nemours Kidshealth.” Edited by Larissa Hirsch, KidsHealth, July 2018, kidshealth.org/en/teens/changing-pads.html#:~:text=Changing%20your%20pad%20every%203,also%20helps%20prevent%20accidental%20leaks.
Commissioner, Office of the. “The Facts on Tampons-and How to Use Them Safely.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 30 Sept.2020, www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-use-them-safely#:~:text=Tampons%20are%20not%20intended%20to,the%20lowest%20absorbency%20tampon%20needed.