Poor menstrual hygiene can cause serious discomfort to our body. From infections to illnesses, a lot can happen when you don’t pay attention to period practices.
Period cycles can be many. From cramps to mood swings, a lot happens for seven days, every month. Some people take medication, while others modify their diets because of it. But one thing that every woman should practice is to observe her hygiene. Menstrual hygiene is as important as maintaining daily cleanliness in your homes. changing sanitary napkins from time to time, using the right material to maintain personal hygiene practices, routine on period days can say a lot about the health of the individual. While this seems like a monthly “mischief,” if not properly considered, it could also have certain side effects. Yes, it can negatively affect our bodies.
Unhygienic practices during menstruation have been reported, including the use of unhygienic material for absorbing blood and disturbed bathing practices. In India, between 43% and 88% of girls wash and reuse cotton cloths instead of disposable towels.
4 side effects of poor menstrual hygiene
- Candidiasis – Candidiasis is a fungal disease caused by Candida albicans. The vagina has its own biome with good bacteria to keep it in balance, so when you have low immunity, yeast attacks and grows outside of the rest of the organisms, leading to infection. This condition can get worse if you follow unhealthy menstrual hygiene practices.
- Mycoses: Many women suffer from yeast infections. Symptoms include vaginal itching, burning sensation, irritation, white discharge, and sometimes inflammation. Not changing sanitary napkins from time to time or even using dirty sanitary napkins can lead to fungal infections.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – It is the most common type of infectious disease. Urinary tract infections are believed to be among the most common forms of infection in girls and women of menstruating age and this is thought to be due to unhygienic practices.
- bacterial vaginosis – A disturbance in the pH balance of vaginal secretions can occur, which can lead to a change in the natural flora. A high pH level can provide an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to breed if menstrual hygiene is not practiced. There is a delicate balance of good and bad bacteria that live in the vagina. If this balance is disturbed, it can cause bacterial vaginosis.
So ladies, while this is generic information, it’s best to always consult a doctor for better advice. Also, don’t forget to start with good menstrual practices!
Published Date: May 16, 2023 7:09 PM IST
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