Poor menstrual hygiene, however, can pose serious health risks, like reproductive and urinary tract infections which can result in future infertility and birth complications. Neglecting to wash hands after changing menstrual products can spread infections, such as hepatitis B and thrush.
This is not true. There is no reason not to bathe during your period. In fact, a warm bath can help ease cramps. It may seem hard to believe, but in generations past, women were told they could get sick, go blind, or lose their hair from taking a bath during their menstrual period.
Regular showers are necessary to prevent odour and lower the risk of infection during menstruation. If you want to use a tub, clean it before entering it and definitely after using it too! Use plain water to clean the vagina.
Meat, oil, sugars, salts, and coffee worsened menstrual cramps, while foods containing omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and may alleviate them.
Hormonelike substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger the uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more-severe menstrual cramps.
This is a common misconception and worry amongst most people. The fact is it's perfectly hygienic to wash your period underwear with your other laundry. For additional peace of mind, give them a quick rinse after use, allow them to dry, and then wash them with your other washing the next day.
Poor menstrual hygiene, however, can pose serious health risks, like reproductive and urinary tract infections which can result in future infertility and birth complications. Neglecting to wash hands after changing menstrual products can spread infections, such as hepatitis B and thrush.
Since mom herself will be back on her period soon, there's no valid, medically-proven reason that someone's menstrual cycle would cause any harm to a newborn.
Dehydration can escalate PMS and period discomfort, so drink up. Hydration prevents your blood from thickening while alleviating the muscle cramps associated with your monthly flow. Additionally, drinking water can help end your cycle faster. Eight glasses, or 64 ounces per day, really works wonders.
"Having sex won't usually start your period earlier," says Lucky Sekhon, MD, fertility specialist and board certified OB/GYN. "It's theoretically conceivable, since sex can have high impact on the reproductive tract and orgasm can cause uterine contractions that may hasten the breakdown of the lining.
There aren't any medications or pills to stop menstruation immediately once it starts. But! You can take hormonal birth control to stop periods before they start, or take other medications to make your periods lighter.
If you want to pause your period temporarily, you can do so safely and effectively using hormonal birth control methods. Period delays can be beneficial for people with endometriosis or painful periods. However, some risks include possible problems with future fertility and breakthrough bleeding.
Your period can last between 2 and 7 days, but it will usually last for about 5 days. The bleeding tends to be heaviest in the first 2 days. When your period is at its heaviest, the blood will be red. On lighter days, it may be pink or brown.
Regular showers during your period are necessary to prevent odor and reduce your risk of infection. Take a shower or bath at least once per day. Some medical professionals even recommend bathing twice daily during your period, such as in the morning and at night.
No matter how light your flow is, or even if there is no flow, bacteria can build up. Changing your pad every 3 or 4 hours (more if your period is heavy) is good hygiene and helps prevent bad odors. This is especially true if you'll be playing sports or rushing around from class to class.
(Remember to avoid rubbing as that will only spread the blood.) Keep blotting until there is no more blood coming off on the washcloth. Soak your garment in cold water for 30 minutes. Afterwards, toss it in the washing machine with cold water and gentle detergent.
Generally, your period won't be noticeable to others. If it is strong enough to be noticed through your pants, for example, it's more likely that you have sprung a leak than anyone can smell anything through your menstrual care device.
“When the uterus is deprived of oxygen, it releases chemicals that may trigger the pain such as prostaglandins which increases uterine contractions. This type of period pain usually occurs during the second day of your period and is termed as Dysmenorrhea,” adds the expert.
Symptoms may include cramping or pain in the lower abdomen, low back pain, pain spreading down the legs, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, fainting, or headaches. Treatments may include NSAIDS, acetaminophen, birth control pills, hormone treatment, dietary changes, vitamins, exercise, heat, or massage.
Secondary dysmenorrhea
These menstrual cramps often worsen with age and can last for the entire duration of your period. Women who experience secondary dysmenorrhea can usually find pain relief with help from a doctor.