It’s not the problem of menstruation but bad menstrual hygiene. If you are not paying enough attention, expect these side effects. Everyone has different periods, but if there is one thing that must be common during menstruation, it is hygiene practices. Hygiene is very important, especially when you are menstruating. If you’re bleeding, you should definitely practice better feminine hygiene. Otherwise, you may face vaginal infections and overall health issues.

When you wear a pad/tampon for too long, douche your vagina, avoid baths during your period, have carefree sex and not wash your vagina, or sleep with a tampon in, you can put your health at risk. Period mistakes are totally normal if you are doing it sometimes! I am sure we have all been through moments like that. You could really damage your health if you make these unhealthy practices a habit.

What is the importance of menstrual hygiene?

The fact that menstruation is still taboo has contributed to its shrouding in myths, leading to women following unhealthy habits. Considering that menstruation is a natural process, women should understand and practice proper menstrual hygiene without shame or embarrassment. Good menstrual hygiene management is essential. It can help a woman avoid allergies and reproductive tract infections (RTIs).

Here are the consequences of unhealthy menstrual practices:

1. Fungal infection

Many women suffer from vaginal fungal infections. Vaginal itching, burning sensations, irritation, white discharge and sometimes inflammation are some of the symptoms of this infection. You can invite fungal infections by not changing your sanitary napkins and tampons regularly or even by using dirty sanitary napkins. It is crucial to prevent this infection. If you experience this infection, you should visit the doctor.

2. UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)

Women, especially pregnant mothers, may have difficulty dealing with UTIs. The infection occurs when there is a bacterial infection in the bladder (which can impact the kidneys), burning when one urinates, and a urinary emergency when one needs to go to the bathroom immediately (which means they can’t wait). Poor menstrual hygiene and pH changes in the vaginal area can cause UTIs.

3. Bacterial infection

Maintaining proper vaginal health is not always easy. Bacterial infection or bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common conditions that can develop in your vagina due to poor hygiene practices. During your period, if you wear the same pad for around 8-10 hours, then you are more likely to get an infection caused by bacteria. You are at an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis if you are sexually active, pregnant, or have IUDs (Intrauterine devices).

4. Yeast infection

Every woman suffers from a yeast infection at least once in her lifetime. Candida albicans are the cause of this fungal infection. When you do not have good bacteria in your vagina, fungus strikes and outgrows the other organisms, resulting in infection. If you follow unhealthy menstrual hygiene practices, this condition can get worse.