Home - health - 11 Period Mistakes To Avoid For Better Health And Hygiene
11 period mistakes to avoid for better health and hygiene

11 period mistakes to avoid for better health and hygiene

Periods tend to be synonymous with menstrual pain, cramps, and other symptoms and are a hassle for almost every individual who menstruates. Approximately 80% of menstruating individuals experience period pain at some point. Period management involves several effective strategies and home remedies to alleviate discomfort and ensure hygiene and safety during this time. In addition, being aware of certain common period mistakes can help ensure a more hassle-free menstrual cycle:

Changing pads and tampons infrequently
Tampons and pads are a hotbed for the accumulation of bacteria, regardless of the amount of flow. Such bacteria can cause vaginal and urinary infections and emit an unpleasant odor. Individuals with normal blood flow should change their pads or tampons once every 3-4 hours, while those experiencing heavy menstruation should do so more frequently.

Being dehydrated
The body loses more fluids during menstruation than on other days. Thus, it requires more water to perform various functions, including regulation of body temperature and bowel movements, lubrication of joints, and supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells. Lack of water intake can slow down these functions, increasing weakness and fatigue. It is advisable to have a bottle of water handy throughout the day and set reminders if required to take water breaks frequently during one’s period. One may also incorporate other healthy fluids, such as fresh fruit juices, smoothies, soups, and herbal tea, into one’s meal plan to stay hydrated.

Using scented pads or tampons
While scented pads and tampons may seem like an idea to avoid unpleasant odors, these can cause extreme discomfort, itching, and irritation. Moreover, these products alter the vagina’s pH balance, causing issues like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. It is best to steer clear of scented menstrual products, using only regular pads and tampons, to avoid menstrual complications.

Not having nutritious foods
Although period cravings are quite common among individuals who menstruate, it is best to limit junk foods during one’s menstrual cycle, as the body loses vital nutrients through period blood. Foods like burgers and fries are typically loaded with preservatives, trans fats, and sodium, which can cause hormonal imbalance and impact one’s menstrual cycle. Thus, it is important to replenish the body with rich sources of iron and other nutrients, particularly during menstruation. Some foods that the body requires during periods are leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, fatty fish, yogurt, whole grains, eggs, dates, and nuts.

Not using condoms during intercourse
A common mistake by couples is to avoid using condoms during sexual intercourse when one of the partners is menstruating. Contrary to popular belief, sexual intercourse during periods can also lead to pregnancy. Further, couples are more at risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases during such times, therefore, it is advisable to use condoms and practice safe sex during the menstrual cycle.

Sleeping insufficiently
Lack of sleep affects melatonin levels in the body. Melatonin is responsible for regulating the start and duration of one’s menstrual cycle. Therefore, insufficient sleep can severely affect the menstrual cycle. Conversely, several individuals report difficulty sleeping during their periods. A survey conducted by the U.S. National Sleep Foundation suggests that 30% of individuals experience disturbed sleep while menstruating. Some ways to ensure better sleep during menstruation include investing in a comfortable mattress, staying away from gadgets before bedtime, and avoiding caffeinated beverages, particularly after sunset.

Not keeping track of one’s cycle
A common misconception is that one needs to track their period cycle only when trying to get pregnant. However, tracking one’s menstrual cycle helps diagnose various health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome, and understand one’s moods and hormonal changes better. Today, several period-tracking apps are available to help individuals keep track of various aspects associated with their periods, including their physical, mental, and emotional states.

Not maintaining basic hygiene
Basic hygiene measures are imperative at all times but more so during one’s period. While most menstruating individuals wash their hands after changing pads or tampons, many forget to do so before changing these menstrual products. This practice is equally essential to avoid any bacteria from coming in contact with the vagina. Other hygiene practices to follow during menstruation include washing the labia and outside of the vagina every day and wiping one’s genitals from the front toward the back. One must remember to clean the vagina only with water, avoiding the application of soap in the area.

Staying constipated during periods
The body experiences a surge in progesterone levels just before the start of one’s menstrual cycle. Such an increase in progesterone can slow down one’s digestion, often giving rise to constipation. Although progesterone levels start to diminish once again during menstruation, the digestive system typically requires some push to resume its functions effectively. Constipation during periods can worsen bloating, cramps, and discomfort. Thus, it is essential to have foods rich in insoluble fiber, such as whole grains, bran, potatoes, vegetables, and beans, and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation during one’s menstrual cycle.

Not being physically active
Light exercises during menstruation can help control its negative effects, in addition to enhancing mood and facilitating overall physical and mental well-being. However, since most individuals experience fatigue and abdominal pain during this time, it is advisable to avoid high-intensity exercises, switching to moderate and low-intensity ones like walking, jogging, and moderate-intensity aerobics.

Not understanding what each period color indicates
One’s period color can be an indicator of overall health and can help detect different health conditions. For instance, gray period blood typically indicates vaginal infection, while dark brown blood can be an early sign of pregnancy. It is important to identify any abnormalities in period-blood color and consult a gynecologist at the earliest to prevent further complications.

Latest Articles

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms
health

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema has many different stages and types. Unfortunately, about 10.1 percent of people in the country have some or the other form of this condition. Such a disease is a combination of conditions that make the skin irritated or inflamed. With proper treatment, one can manage symptoms. Red, dry, cracked, and leathery skin are the common eczema signs. Here are three useful methods that help deal with eczema and manage its symptoms: Getting the right treatment options Here are some treatments associated with eczema. Dupixent Dupixent is prescribed for children six or older and adults; for those who cannot control symptoms with other treatment measures, alternate treatments are not recommended. This monoclonal antibody works on a targeted area in the immune system. Dupixent comes in pre-filled single-dose pens and syringes, given as a subcutaneous injection. One can find this treatment option in two strengths: 300-mg/2-mL and 200 mg/1.14-mL solutions. Cibinqo This once-daily oral treatment helps manage symptoms for adults who have not seen relief with prevailing treatment options. Cibinqo is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Doses that can be taken are either 100 or 200 mg. Alternately, a 50 mg dosage is for patients with moderate renal impairment. Upadacitinib and Eucrisa Upadacitinib is a JAK1 inhibitor and helps adolescents and adults with severe or moderate eczema. However, this FDA-approved treatment can cause side effects like fever, cough, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infections. Typically, one starts with 15 mg, but the doctor may advise a 30 mg dose if that does not work. Eucrisa is also a treatment option for eczema. It is for skin-only treatment, so do not get it in contact with sensitive areas and rinse with water in case of contact. Foods to eat and avoid Eczema needs to be managed with a disciplined nutritional regime.
5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep
health

5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep

Have you ever woken up feeling tired and lethargic despite sleeping for seven to eight hours at night? It could be due to poor sleep quality. Disturbed sleep influences the rest of your day: how you think, your performance at work, and other tasks. The causes of poor sleep are many, including a faulty mattress, distractions in your room, or a heavy dinner. Avoiding the following mistakes before bed can help you sleep better: Staring at a screen Using gadgets close to bedtime is probably the most common mistake in the digital age. The blue light emitted from screens affects the production of a specific hormone responsible for inducing sleep and regulating the circadian rhythm. Apart from the blue light emission, the television or mobile phone sound can be a distraction that keeps you awake. High noise levels create lots of mental stimulation and disturbance, preventing the brain from shutting down. Hence, it is advisable to avoid using phones, televisions, and laptops for at least an hour before bed. Exercising Exercise is among the best solutions for good health, but you must do it at the right time. Physical activity late in the evening or at night hampers sleep patterns by increasing stress and raising body temperature. The only exercise recommended before bedtime is light stretching and simple yoga. These help relieve muscle tension and relax the body and mind, preparing them to drift asleep. You can perform intense exercises in the morning or earlier in the evening. If you have some spare time before sleeping, use it for sitting down and reflecting on the happenings of the day instead of exercising. It will help you fall asleep faster. Making poor food choices A meal with lots of refined carbs and sugar is unsuitable for dinner as it can keep you awake at night.
Migraine – Ways to manage the condition
health

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition

Migraine headaches are a devitalizing experience. It completely saps the person of energy and prevents them from being productive during these episodes. There is usually a build-up to a migraine attack which is different for every individual. The phase before the actual migraine attack is known as the aura, and people may report seeing flashes of light or experiencing a tingling sensation. Below are some options for treating migraine headaches: Treatment options Nurtec Nurtec is a treatment option that helps relieve some symptoms of migraines. It reduces the severity of headaches and sensitivity to light. Nurtec is usually taken on alternate days to prevent migraines and other pain associated with the condition. Ubrelvy Ubrelvy, a fast pain-relief, is a treatment option that blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the body. CGRP is associated with migraine attacks, and suppressing it goes a long way in treating the condition. Excedrin This pain reliever does not just treat migraine headaches but also pain in other parts of the body. Excedrin provides fast pain relief to the patient. Qulipta Qulipta is a treatment option that helps prevent migraines over a more extended period. However, medical professionals do not recommend this treatment option to people suffering from kidney or liver problems. Qulipta works by blocking the CGRP protein. Foods to help manage migraine headaches Certain foods are part of the preventive treatment for migraines. While a preventative treatment may not completely stop migraine headaches, it will help reduce the severity and occurrence of these attacks. Bananas Bananas are rich in magnesium. According to some studies, magnesium is deficient in migraine sufferers, and the mineral stops the chemicals that cause pain. Watermelons Watermelons contain around 92% water, and it is a great way to stay hydrated. Dehydration often triggers headaches in general, which could lead to migraine attacks.