Üsküdar Üniversitesi Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Midwifery, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir, in her statement on the occasion of May 28 World Menstrual Hygiene Day, emphasized that hygiene during the menstrual period is of vital importance for women's health.
Why is hygiene so important during menstruation?
Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir stated that at least 75% of women worldwide have a history of genital infection, saying, “Factors causing genital infection in women can be grouped as environmental and personal risk factors. Personal risks include, primarily, a lack of hygiene, improper cleaning of the genital area after using the toilet, insufficient handwashing habits, the genital area remaining wet, not using appropriate underwear, and not paying enough attention to menstrual hygiene. The menstrual period is a time requiring special care and hygiene. During this period, a suitable environment for bacteria to multiply forms in the genital area. If hygiene rules are not followed, it can lead to various health problems such as vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections. Pads or tampons used for too long without being changed can cause bad odor and skin irritation.”
Are there differences between menstrual products?
Noting that hygiene products used during menstruation are generally divided into internal hygiene products inserted into the vagina (tampons, menstrual cups, menstrual sponges) and products providing external hygiene protection (sanitary pads, panty liners, menstrual underwear), Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir continued:
“Sanitary product preferences can vary depending on individual menstrual characteristics (flow intensity, duration, etc.), personal comfort, cultural and socioeconomic factors, the region lived in, and health information. From a health perspective, it is stated that endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in some disposable pads can pose long-term health risks. In contrast, when reusable products are provided with correct cleaning and usage conditions, they offer both an environmentally sustainable alternative and a long-term economic advantage. The main point to consider for health when choosing hygiene products is to use the product in accordance with its instructions, change it at regular intervals, and ensure necessary hygiene.”
What should be considered when using tampons and menstrual cups?
Emphasizing that hygiene is of much greater importance for products placed inside the vagina, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir said, “Hands must be washed before and after use, and it must be ensured that the product is clean. A tampon should not be used for more than 4-6 hours. Otherwise, although very rarely, it can cause serious infections such as toxic shock syndrome. As for the menstrual cup, it should be boiled for 5-10 minutes before use and after the menstrual period ends. With each use, it should be washed with soap-free water and reinserted. When used properly, the menstrual cup does not disrupt the balance of the vaginal flora. In fact, it is more natural than synthetic pads and tampons. However, if hygiene is not observed, the flora can be disrupted. This product should not be used in areas where access to clean water is unavailable. Using this product without proper washing can lead to serious reproductive tract infections. These products are generally suitable for individuals who are environmentally conscious, do not want to buy products repeatedly, have an active lifestyle, and have the conditions to clean the product.”
Genital area cleaning should be more sensitive than usual during menstruation
Stating that genital area cleaning during menstruation should be a little more sensitive than usual, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir said, “The external genital area should be washed with warm water several times a day. Scented soaps, shower gels, or vaginal cleansing products can disrupt the natural balance of that area. This can lead to fungal or bacterial infections. Using cotton underwear and changing it frequently is also important. Also, when cleaning, it is necessary to wipe from front to back.”
Pads should generally be changed every 4-6 hours
Stating that scented pads or soaps can cause allergies, irritation, or infection in the genital area due to the perfumes and chemical substances they contain, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir said, “Pads should generally be changed every 4-6 hours. If bleeding is heavy, they should be changed even more frequently. Even if long pads specially produced for nighttime use are used, they should be changed as soon as one wakes up in the morning. Staying with the same pad for a long time leads to the multiplication of bacteria and bad odors. Additionally, the risk of diaper rash, irritation, and infection increases.”
Common mistakes increasing infection risk
Stating that insufficient cleanliness of toilets used in schools, workplaces, or public areas, the lack of a suitable place to change pads, or the inability to access hygiene products can negatively affect women's health, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir said, “This situation can make not only their health but also their education, work, and overall quality of life difficult. The inability to regularly change products like pads used during menstruation, inserting menstrual products without washing hands, using inappropriate products, and wearing tight and synthetic clothes increase the risk of infection.”
When to consult a doctor?
Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir stated that one should definitely consult a doctor in cases such as foul-smelling, colored, or heavy discharge, itching, burning, or pain, high fever and weakness during the menstrual period (especially after using a tampon).
What are the alternative solutions?
Stating that menstrual products can be expensive and not every woman may have regular access to them, Assistant Professor Dr. Arzu Akdemir concluded her words by saying, “In this situation, reusable products can be considered. Menstrual cups offer great savings in the long run, but their cleaning should not be neglected. Cloth pads can be washed by hand and dried in the sun to be used repeatedly. They should be made of clean, cotton, and absorbent fabric. In addition, some municipalities, women's solidarity networks, or associations distribute free or discounted menstrual products. Social media and local announcements can be followed to access these resources. ”
