Period Hygiene: Staying Fresh and Healthy

 Managing your period isn't just about choosing the right products; it’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and healthy in your own skin. When you’re on your period, your body’s pH balance can shift slightly, making a solid hygiene routine more important than ever.

Here is your guide to staying fresh, preventing irritation, and keeping things "down there" happy and healthy.

1. The Golden Rule: Change Frequently

The most important part of period hygiene is not letting products sit for too long. Blood, moisture, and warmth are the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

• Pads: Change every 4 to 6 hours, even if they don't feel "full."

• Tampons: Change every 4 to 8 hours. Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours due to the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

• Menstrual Cups/Discs: These can typically be worn for up to 12 hours, but should be washed thoroughly with mild, unscented soap between uses.

2. Keep It Simple: Washing 101

It might be tempting to use scented soaps or "feminine washes" to feel extra clean, but these can actually do more harm than good.

Important Note: The vagina is a self-cleaning oven! It uses natural secretions to stay healthy. Using harsh chemicals can disrupt your natural pH and lead to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis (BV).

• Stick to Water: Use warm water to wash the external area (the vulva).

• Avoid Scents: Steer clear of scented pads, tampons, or "intimate" sprays. Fragrances are common irritants.

• Wipe Front to Back: Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from the anal area from moving toward the vagina or urethra.

3. Choose Breathable Fabrics

Trapping moisture against your skin can lead to rashes and irritation (sometimes called "pad rash"). To stay fresh:

• Wear Cotton Underwear: Cotton is breathable and allows moisture to evaporate. Save the synthetic, lacy fabrics for non-period days.

• Avoid Tight Clothes: Tight leggings or jeans can restrict airflow. Choosing looser clothing during your flow can help you stay cool and dry.

• 
  
  
  

4. Handling Public Restrooms Like a Pro

Changing your period products in a public stall can feel a little stressful at first, but a little preparation goes a long way:

• Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands before and after changing your tampon, cup, or pad to avoid introducing bacteria.

• The Wrap-and-Roll: Wrap your used pad or tampon in toilet paper or the wrapper of the new product before tossing it in the bin.

• Never Flush: No matter what the packaging says, pads and tampons should never be flushed, they can cause major plumbing disasters!

5. Managing the "Period Smell"

It’s a common worry, but here’s the truth: most "period odor" is only noticeable to you. It happens when menstrual blood comes into contact with air.

• Regular changes are the best way to manage this.

• If you notice a very strong, fishy, or unusual odor, it might be a sign of an infection rather than just your period. If that happens, it’s a good idea to chat with a doctor.

SUMMARY

Action	Frequency	Why?
Change Product	Every 4–8 hours	Prevents bacteria growth and leaks.
Wash Vulva	Once or twice daily	Keeps the external area clean without irritation.
Wash Hands	Before & After	Prevents infections.
Sleep in a Pad/Period Undies	Overnight	Allows for a longer stretch of rest without internal products.