Periods in The Rainy Season | Take Care of Your Menstrual Health

Monsoon is a beautiful season, but when it comes to managing periods during monsoon, it is a challenging phase for the menstruators. The hot and humid weather, combined with moisture in the environment and menstrual blood, makes your vaginal area a perfect hub for bacterial growth. During this season, it's essential to take extra care of your menstrual health. As per the experts from menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiatives, awareness is the key to healthy menstrual health. 

With the proper habits, you can stay comfortable, uphold period hygiene, and even enjoy the rainy season without any worries. It is more likely for women to experience rashes and vaginal infections during such times. But this blog will explain a few tips to manage your menstrual health and hygiene during the rainy season.

Period Hygiene And Its Importance During The Rainy Season:

The humidity during the rainy season causes more sweat, especially in the perineal area. The moisture, along with the inherent warmth, makes it ideal for bacteria and fungi to grow and breed. Additionally, during periods, women wear more layers of clothes or underwear, which causes skin irritation. Please do not opt for synthetic fabric during such times because it blocks the airflow and traps the sweat, making the situation worse. 

Here Are A Few Potential Issues You Might Face if You Ignore Your Period Hygiene During The Monsoons:

• Risk of Infections:

  Dampness increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections significantly if pads or tampons are not changed frequently.

• Skin Rashes:

  Sweat and prolonged contact with pads can cause rashes or chafing in sensitive areas.

• Bad Odor: 

  If not managed well, a mix of sweat, moisture, and period flow can result in unpleasant smells or foul smells.

If you want to maintain your menstrual health during the rainy season, a few little changes in your lifestyle can work wonders. It would help if you focused on keeping yourself dry, clean, comfortable, and hygienic. A little awareness about your well-being can save you from many health challenges.

1. You Can Consider Choosing Menstrual Cups:Menstrual cups are not only good for you compared to pads, but they are also eco-friendly. They help reduce the risk of infections during periods. Menstrual cups collect the menstrual blood rather than absorb or soak it, making them a safer option from the menstrual hygiene perspective. If you are comfortable enough, you can switch to menstrual cups and not only enjoy a comfortable period but also take care of the environment at the same time.

2. Dry Your Reusable Pads Properly:

   If you are using reusable pads, make sure to dry them properly. During the rainy season, it is tough to dry pads naturally as sunlight is scarce. In such cases, dry your reusable pads with a fan, but it might take longer. Please do not use iron for drying, as it can damage the fabric and reduce the effectiveness of the pads.

3. Change Pads or Tampons Regularly

   Whether you’re using pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, changing them regularly is crucial for your period hygiene. During the rainy season, the added moisture can make you feel uncomfortable faster, so make sure to:

   • Change Every 4-6 Hours:

     Don’t wait too long to switch out your pad or tampon, even if the flow is light.

   • Clean Your Menstrual Cup Thoroughly:

     If you use a menstrual cup, clean it with gentle soap and water each time you empty it. Sterilise it after each cycle to ensure no bacteria are left behind.

   • Dispose of Sanitary Products Carefully: 

     Hygienically dispose of pads and tampons to avoid unpleasant odours and reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

   • Keep Your Intimate Area Dry And Clean.

     Moisture can lead to infections, so keeping the intimate area dry is crucial for your menstrual health. Here are a few steps for you to follow:

   • Use A Soft Towel: 

     Pat the area dry gently after bathing each time you use the restroom.

   • Avoid Sented Products:

     Scented soaps or wipes can irritate the skin and disturb the natural pH balance.

   • Use A Mild Cleanser: 

     If you need to cleanse the area, opt for a pH-balanced, unscented product specifically designed for intimate areas.

     This practice not only keeps you comfortable but also helps reduce the chance of irritation or infection.

   • Opt for Home-Cooked Meals.

     While you are on your period, it is suggested that you consume home-cooked meals for a balanced diet. Please avoid oily food, as it causes bloating and digestion issues during menstruation. Try to include fruits in your diet so that you can fulfill the nutrients that your body craves during menstruation.

The Role of Menstrual Health And Hygiene Initiative in Our Society

Menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiatives are gaining deserved attention worldwide, focusing on making menstrual products, period hygiene education, and health services more accessible. These initiatives are designed to:

• Increase Awareness:

  Educating people that period hygiene is essential, especially during rainy seasons when infections are more likely to happen.

• Reduce Stigma:

  These initiatives work to reduce the shame and discomfort surrounding periods by making menstrual health a part of public conversation.

• Promote Access to Products: 

  Many organisations work to make sanitary products available to women from underprivileged communities, ensuring that everyone can prioritise period hygiene without any second thoughts.

Tips for Self-Care And Staying Comfortable During Your Period - Takeaway

Caring for yourself physically and mentally during your period can help you feel more comfortable, be it any season.

• Getting Enough Rest

  Rainy days can make you feel lethargic and inclined to rest for longer hours, especially during your periods, which is perfect if you are feeling tired. Listen to the signals that your body is sending and take breaks when you need them. Please don't compromise on your sleep schedule during these 5-7 days.

• Engaging in Light Exercise

  Even a short walk or gentle stretching can ease cramps and lift your mood. Rainy weather might discourage outdoor activities, so consider indoor exercises like yoga or gentle stretching.

• Using Heat for Cramps

  A warm compress or heating pad can be very effective for menstrual cramps. If you don't have one handy, try a warm towel.

• Practising Stress-Relief Techniques

  Meditation, journaling, or listening to soothing music can help reduce stress and improve your mood, making your period experience much easier to manage.

  These tips can help you manage your period hygiene during the rainy season. If you make small changes in your schedule, you can easily have a stress-free and comfortable period. Oh, and don't forget to stay hydrated.