The Importance of Menstrual Hygiene: What Every Girl Should Know
Menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life for girls and women. But while getting your period is normal, maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is essential for staying healthy, comfortable, and confident. Unfortunately, many girls around the world are not taught how to care for themselves during their period. This article is here to change that.
Let’s talk about why menstrual hygiene matters—and what every girl should know.
What Is Menstrual Hygiene?
Menstrual hygiene means keeping the body clean and managing your period safely. This includes using clean menstrual products, changing them regularly, and practicing good washing habits during your cycle.
Good hygiene helps prevent infections, bad odors, and skin irritation. More importantly, it allows girls to attend school, play sports, and go about their daily lives without discomfort or embarrassment.
Why Is It So Important?
- Prevents Infections
If menstrual products are not changed often, they can trap bacteria and moisture, leading to infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal infections, or rashes. - Promotes Confidence and Comfort
Feeling clean and protected helps girls stay active and confident. Poor hygiene can lead to leaks and odors, which might cause embarrassment and keep girls from going to school or participating in activities. - Supports Reproductive Health
Proper care during periods helps protect the reproductive organs and keeps the menstrual cycle on track. Poor hygiene over time can lead to complications that affect future fertility. - Breaks Taboos and Promotes Education
Understanding menstrual hygiene opens up important conversations. When girls know how to care for themselves, they can share that knowledge and reduce shame around periods.
What Every Girl Should Do During Her Period
Here are some simple but important steps to stay healthy and clean during menstruation:
1. Use Safe Menstrual Products
Choose what’s right for you:
- Disposable pads: Easy to use and widely available
- Reusable cloth pads: Washable and eco-friendly
- Tampons: Inserted into the vagina (used more by older teens or adults)
- Menstrual cups: Reusable cups that collect blood inside the body
Always use clean, good-quality products and store them in a dry, sanitary place.
2. Change Products Regularly
Change pads or tampons every 4–6 hours, even if the flow is light. Reusable products should be washed thoroughly after each use.
3. Wash the Genital Area Gently
Use clean water and mild soap to wash the vaginal area. Don’t use harsh soaps or sprays—they can cause irritation. Always wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria.
4. Dispose of Used Products Properly
Wrap disposable pads or tampons in paper and throw them in a trash bin—never flush them. Reusable pads should be washed in clean water and dried in the sun if possible.
5. Wear Clean, Comfortable Underwear
Change underwear daily and make sure it’s clean and dry. Wearing breathable cotton underwear can help reduce irritation.
Tips for a Healthy Period Routine
- Keep a period kit in your bag with extra pads, underwear, wipes, and a plastic bag for used items.
- Track your cycle with a calendar or app to be prepared for your next period.
- Eat healthy, drink water, and get enough sleep to support your body during your cycle.
- Talk about it: Don’t be afraid to ask questions or talk to a trusted adult if something feels wrong.
Final Thoughts
Menstrual hygiene is more than just staying clean—it’s about health, dignity, and empowerment. Every girl deserves to know how to care for her body during her period. When we break the silence around menstruation and teach proper hygiene, we give girls the freedom to live fully and confidently, every day of the month.
Remember: Your period is natural, and taking care of yourself is a powerful act of self-respect.