Menstrual hygiene

Hygiene can be defined as practices (as of cleanliness) conducive to health.
Hygiene is important during menstruation as it can reduce the chances of getting infections of the reproductive tract.
Menstrual hygiene (MH) is necessary because it prevents genital infections, itching and discharge. MH prevents embarrassment so that you can be confident about yourself.
How can you care for your body during menstruation?
Develop a general habit of cleanliness. These includes:
1. Take a bath with soap and water regularly twice a day. Wash the genital area to remove secretions that can cause odour or infections. N.B: Do not put anything inside the vagina as it is self-cleansing.
2. Wash clothes and underwear regularly. Underpants should not be worn more than once before washing.
3. Washing or cleaning the genital area after defecating should be from front to back (using clean water, no soap).
4. After each episode of urination, clean backwards with a soft tissue or clean water to remove any remaining urine or secretions to reduce offensive odour.
5. Menstrual pads should be changed as soon as they are moderately soaked. This is to reduce smells or irritation of skin from wet pads.
6. Do not use tissue paper as menstrual pads because they break and small pieces may remain in the vagina and cause infection.
7. Keep the area between the legs dry to avoid chafing.
8. Keep paper towels, sanitizers and sanitary pads in your bag when going out.

Joshua Ekpokpobe
Public Health Researcher

For more reading, get the pamphlet - Menstrual hygiene by the Young Doctors Forum of MWAN (Medical Women Association of Nigeria) in partnership with C-HELP (Centre for Health Education and Life Promotion)