Menstrual Health and Hygiene Awareness for Women - Gynecologist in Patna

Every woman faces menstruation as a natural process that runs throughout her life. Many women currently struggle to manage their periods appropriately because of insufficient knowledge and societal stigma. Every woman needs proper menstrual health and hygiene to achieve total wellness. If you experience irregular periods or severe discomfort, consulting a gynecologist in Patna can help you understand your menstrual health better. This blog explains menstrual hygiene's significance while addressing traditional beliefs and providing specific guidance for healthy period management.

Understanding What is Menstruation

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining is called menstruation or the period, only when pregnancy doesn’t occur. Menstruation starts in the body during the period between 10 to 15 years old and finishes when menopause begins around age 45 to 55. 

A regular menstrual cycle extends between 21 to 35 days while the bleeding phase lasts 2 to 7 days. Every woman experiences unique symptoms when menstruating because cramps, bloating, headaches, mood swings, and fatigue can surface for each individual. If you notice abnormal symptoms, it is advisable to seek advice from a gynecologist doctor in Patna for a thorough evaluation.

Why Menstrual Hygiene is Important? 

Having proper menstrual hygiene is essential for avoiding infections while providing comfort and promoting health awareness. Insufficient menstrual hygiene management produces severe health conditions, 

which include:

• The practice of using unhygienic menstrual products for an extended period creates favorable conditions for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  

• Skin infections and rashes – Caused by irritation from synthetic materials or damp conditions.
  

• Reproductive health problems – Such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and even infertility in severe cases.
  

• Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) represents a rare but lethal bacterial condition that develops when people use tampons for extended periods.

If you face frequent infections or irregularities in your menstrual cycle, consulting the best gynecologist in Patna is essential to prevent long-term health complications.

Best Practices for Menstrual Hygiene

1. Use the Right Sanitary Products Women can manage menstruation through various sanitary products, such as pads, tampons, reusable menstrual cups, and sustainable cloth pads.
   

• Sanitary Pads are easy to use but require changes every 4-6 hours.
  

• Tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
  

• Menstrual Cups are safe, reusable products that stay inside the body for up to twelve hours.
  

• Reusable Cloth Pads are eco-friendly but require careful washing and drying before reuse.
  

2. Choosing the right product depends on individual needs and lifestyle. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, visit the best gynecologist in Patna Bihar for expert guidance.
   

3. No matter what method you choose for feminine care, it is vital to change items regularly to avoid infections. No pad or tampon should remain inside your body past six hours of usage. The menstrual cup requires proper sterilization both before and after each use.
   
   

4. Wash Properly
   

• Wash your vaginal area with warm water combined with gentle soap.
  

• Avoid scented products since they may cause skin irritations.
  

• Always wipe from front to back to prevent infections.
  

• Wash your hands properly after replacing pads or tampons to maintain hygiene.
  

5. Dispose of Used Products Correctly
   

• Sanitary pads should be wrapped in paper before disposal.
  

• Avoid flushing sanitary items, as they can clog drainage pipes.
  

• Reusable sanitary products should be thoroughly cleaned before reuse.
  

6. Proper disposal ensures environmental cleanliness and prevents health hazards.
   

7. Maintain a Healthy Diet
   

• Iron-rich foods – Spinach, beans, and red meat prevent anemia.
  

• Calcium and magnesium – Found in dairy products and nuts, they help relieve cramps.
  

• Hydrating fluids – Water and herbal teas reduce bloating.
  

• Fruits and vegetables – contain essential vitamins and fibre for better digestion.
  

8. Stay Active Exercise is often overlooked during menstruation, but staying active can help relieve cramps and improve mood. Light exercises like yoga, stretching, and walking are excellent ways to reduce period discomfort.

Common Menstrual Myths and Facts

• Myth: Menstruation is dirty or impure.

• Fact: It is a natural biological process, not a sign of impurity.

• Myth: You should not exercise during your period.

• Fact: Light exercises can reduce menstrual cramps and improve mood.

• Myth: You cannot take a bath during your period.

• Fact: Bathing in warm water can help soothe cramps and maintain hygiene.

• Myth: Period blood is different from normal blood.

• Fact: Period blood is the same as normal blood; it just contains additional uterine tissues and mucus.

• Myth: You should avoid eating sour foods during your period.

• Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Addressing Period Poverty 

Many women, especially in rural areas, lack access to proper menstrual products. Period poverty can lead to serious health issues and affect a woman’s confidence and ability to participate in daily activities. Governments and NGOs are working to provide free sanitary products and spread awareness. Schools and workplaces should also provide hygienic facilities for women. If period poverty affects your health, consulting a gynecologist doctor in Patna can help address your concerns.

Emotional and Mental Well-Being During Menstruation 

Periods can impact mental health due to hormonal changes. Women may experience:

• Mood swings
  

• Irritability
  

• Anxiety and depression
  

• Low energy levels

To manage these effects:

• Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques.
  

• Stay physically active.
  

• Get enough sleep and rest.
  

• Talk to a friend or a gynecologist in Patna if mood changes become overwhelming.

When to See a Gynecologist Doctor 

While periods are a normal part of life, certain symptoms should not be ignored. Consult the best gynecologist in Patna Bihar if you experience:

• Very heavy bleeding that requires changing pads every 1-2 hours.
  

• Severe cramps that interfere with daily life.
  

• Missed periods for more than three months (not due to pregnancy).
  

• Unusual discharge or foul smell during periods.
  

• Sudden irregular cycles.
  

• Extreme fatigue or dizziness.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to underlying health issues that require medical attention.

Conclusion

Menstrual health and hygiene are crucial aspects of a woman’s well-being. Breaking taboos, spreading awareness, and following hygienic practices can ensure that every woman experiences her periods with dignity and comfort. Society must work together to educate young girls and ensure they have access to proper hygiene products. If you have concerns about menstrual health, consulting a gynecologist doctor in Patna can provide valuable insights. Let’s work together to promote menstrual health and support every woman in leading a healthy life.

By encouraging open conversations and promoting menstrual hygiene, we can create a more informed society where menstruation is treated with the respect it deserves.