Periods! – a natural and entirely normal part of life for many of us. Yet, the hush-hush attitude and misinformation surrounding menstruation still persist. It’s high time we break down the barriers of taboo and confusion and have an open, honest, and comfortable conversation about periods.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into Periods 101: addressing myths, common mistakes, product choices, and hygiene tips.

By the end of this journey, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the monthly menstrual flow with confidence and ease.

A. Busting Myths About Periods:

1. It’s IMPURE

One of the most pervasive myths is the idea that menstruating individuals are impure.

This misconception has led to the exclusion of women from religious and social activities. The reasons are totally different when it comes to religion and social activities.

In reality, menstruation is a natural bodily function shedding away the uterine lining because it doesn’t need it. It has the power to support and nurture a growing fetus. It’s the purest form and should never be associated with impurity.

2. Pain is NORMAL

While some discomfort during menstruation is common, severe pain is not.

Debilitating cramps may indicate underlying health issues, and seeking medical advice is essential.

3. Periods make you MOODY

It’s a common misconception that menstruating individuals are inherently more irritable or moody during their periods.

While hormonal fluctuations can affect emotions for some, it’s crucial to remember that not everyone experiences mood swings during menstruation, and those who do may have mild fluctuations that are entirely normal.

4. One can’t get PHYSICAL when menstruating

It’s a common misconception that individuals should avoid physical activity during their periods. In reality, moderate exercise can help relieve menstrual cramps and improve overall well-being. Staying active during your period is not only safe but often beneficial. Let your body speak to you, if it needs rest, REST!

B. Common Mistakes About Periods:

1. Ignoring Menstrual Hygiene

Proper hygiene is crucial during menstruation to prevent infections.

Changing sanitary products regularly, washing hands before and after, pat drying the vulva before wearing panty, wearing cotton underwear, and not applying deodorants or any fragrance on the vulva is essential.

2. Using Only One Type of Product

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to menstrual products. Tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and period panties are all viable options. Experiment to find what works best for you.

In the same blog, I have explained in detail about the products you can use during periods. So keep reading 🙂

3. Not Tracking Your Cycle

Understanding your menstrual cycle can help predict your period’s arrival and manage symptoms effectively. Launching the period calendar very soon, so stay tuned! Until then use a regular calendar to mark your dates.

4. Flushing Menstrual Products

One common mistake is flushing sanitary products, like pads or tampons, down the toilet. These products are not designed to break down like toilet paper and can lead to plumbing issues and environmental pollution.

Always dispose of them in a sanitary waste bin or follow proper disposal instructions on the packaging.

1. Sanitary Pads

C. Choosing the Right Products:

These are absorbent pads worn inside the underwear. They come in various sizes and absorbencies, making them suitable for light to heavy flow.

Here are a few brands I would recommend for you to try.

Nua Period Combo

2. Tampons

Tampons are inserted into the vaginal canal to absorb menstrual blood. They come in different sizes and are ideal for those who want more discretion.

Recommended Brands:

1. Pee Safe 100% Organic, Biodegradable Cotton Tampons

2. O.b. ProComfort Tampons

3. Carmesi 100% Organic Cotton Tampons

3. Menstrual Cups:

These reusable silicone or rubber cups collect menstrual blood. They are eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

Recommended Brands:

1. Pee Safe

2. Sirona

3. Plush

4. Period Panties

These absorbent underwear can be worn alone or as a backup with other products. They are comfortable and environmentally friendly.

1. Healthfab

2. Carmesi(Disposable)

3. Lavos

4. D’chica

5. Kotex(Disposable)

6. Evereve(Disposable)

D. Maintaining Hygiene During Periods:

Proper hygiene during menstruation is essential to ensure your well-being and prevent infections. Here are detailed tips on maintaining hygiene:

1. Regular Changes

Change your menstrual product (pad, tampon, cup, or panty) regularly, ideally every 4 to 6 hours, even if it doesn’t feel completely saturated. Frequent changes help prevent leaks and minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

2. Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after changing your menstrual product. This step is crucial to prevent transferring any germs to or from your genitals.

3. Genital Area Cleaning

During your period, it’s essential to clean your genital area gently and regularly with regular or lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh soaps, powder and fragrances. Do not wash the inside pipe of your vulva (called vagina), as they can disrupt the natural pH balance and cause irritation. ust open the lips and clean the inside and outside of your vulva.

4. Wiping Technique

When using the toilet, always wipe from front to back (vulva to anus) to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the vulva area.

5. Clothing Choice

Opt for breathable, cotton underwear, which helps reduce moisture and the risk of irritation. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can trap heat and moisture.

6. Menstrual Cup Cleaning

If you use a menstrual cup, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and sterilizing it between uses. Boiling the cup in water for a few minutes at the beginning and end of your period is a common method.

7. Leak Prevention

To prevent leaks, especially at night, consider wearing a larger pad or using period panties as a backup. You can also place a towel, bed protectors or separate bed sheet under you while sleeping.

8. Avoiding Irritants

Steer clear of scented feminine hygiene products or talcum powder in the genital area, as these can irritate the skin.

9. Pain Relief and Comfort

If you experience discomfort or cramps, use a heating pad, oils or take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your doctor. Staying comfortable can positively impact your overall well-being during menstruation.

Here are a few cramp relief oils:

Here are a few heat patch brands:

10. Traveling with Hygiene Products

When traveling, ensure you have an adequate supply of your chosen menstrual products, as well as access to clean water and restroom facilities for changing.
Panty liners are a huge success while travelling or when you are expecting your periods and for your white discharge.

11. Emptying and Cleaning Menstrual Cups

If you use a menstrual cup, it’s crucial to empty and clean it regularly (every 4 to 12 hours, depending on flow). Empty the cup, rinse it with warm water, and reinsert it. At the end of your period, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for thorough cleaning and storage.

By following these hygiene practices during menstruation, you can help ensure your comfort and health, reduce the risk of infections, and feel more confident and at ease during your period. Remember that menstruation is a natural process, and taking care of your body and practicing good hygiene is an essential part of that journey.

Conclusion:

Understanding menstruation is not only about mastering the logistics of products and hygiene but also about breaking the silence and dispelling the myths surrounding this natural bodily function.

With the right knowledge and tools, you can navigate your period with confidence and educate others, ensuring that no one feels ashamed or uninformed about something as normal as menstruation.

Enroll in our ‘The Period Talk‘ online course, where we’ll explore everything you need to know about periods, from debunking myths to mastering menstrual hygiene.

You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of your body and menstruation, empowering you to have open conversations about this natural process with confidence.

It’s time to have the ‘Period Talk’ and usher in a new era of period positivity and empowerment.