FOOD & HYGIENE DURING MENSTRUAL PERIODS

1. Eat more frequently

When one ears more frequently, their metabolism increases. This will make one feel good as well as gives more energy. 

 
This rule applies to any time and not only during the week of periods. Hence it is recommended that one should try to have five small meals rather than three heavy ones. This will definitely make one feel better.

2. Change regularly

The most essential factor is that women should change their sanitary pads/ tampons/ menstrual cups on a regular basis. Tampons should be changed once every two hours while the average time for changing sanitary pads is once in six hours. This doesn’t mean that one has to stick to these timings they have to modify the schedule according to their needs. 

Some women who have a heavy flow would have to change more frequently, while few others, less frequently. In few cases one’s tampon or sanitary pad might not be fully utilized – especially on days of lesser flow; whatever may be the case, one should change at proper intervals.

3. Drink plenty of water

It might sound absurd as one will be retaining a lot of water during this period, but drinking plenty of water will make them feel better. If truth be told, one of the reasons for a person retaining water in their body might be due to dehydration. Drinking water will make them notice the difference.

4. Wash yourself regularly

Before one changes a new pad or tampon, it is imperative that they to wash their female genitals (vagina and labia) very well. If they are not able to wash before changing, they have to make sure that the areas are wiped off completely by means of tissues or toilet papers.

During menstruation, there is a tendency for the blood to get into minute gaps (e.g., the skin between labia or the layer surrounding the opening of vagina. Hence one should make it a practice to wash this blood well. This helps to eliminate bad smell emanating from the region surrounding one’s genitals.

5. Get your fill of Vitamin B6 & Vitamin C

Vitamin B6 helps alleviate premenstrual hunger pangs. It also relieves one from mood swings, exhaustion and water retention (thus reducing bloating). Vitamin B6 is surplus in fishes, chickens, turkeys, eggs, bananas, nuts & potatoes. The other vitamin that has similar properties is Vitamin C.  Apart from all citrus fruits, vitamin C is also present in cranberries & Brussels sprouts.

6. Pad rashes

Some women experience pad rash during heavy flow days. When one’s pad has remained wet for a long time and it rubs along their thighs causing it to get irritated and leads to rashes. One should try to stay dry during such days in order to prevent rashes. 

If a person has got rashes, they have to change pads frequently to remain dry. They should apply antiseptic cream, after taking bath and before going to bed. This helps repair the skin and avoid getting affected further. If it goes out of hands one must visit their doctor who would prescribe a medicated powder that would keep the parts dry.

7. Don’t use soaps or vaginal hygiene products

It is recommended that one uses warm water to wash regularly during this period and to avoid soaps and other harsh substances on their genitals. Female genital has its own mechanism of cleaning that works by striking good balance between good and bad bacteria. Hence, application of soap or other harmful products might destroy the good bacteria leading to infections.

8. Keep some tea tree oil on hand

Tea tree oil is an extraordinary antiseptic given by nature. It also has antibacterial properties. If one feels any blotches forming, the can apply a small amount of tea tree oil. It works similar to a 5% benzoyl peroxide solution but it is less harmful.

9. Eat foods rich in Vitamin A & D

  

Vitamins A & D are very good for one’s skin & they will keep the skin away from blemishes. Carrots & spinach contain these vitamins. Spinach can be used as a base for preparing salads. Apart from these, watermelons, dried apricots, tuna, eggs, salmon, mushrooms and other spices like paprika, red pepper, cayenne & even chili powder are rich in these two vitamins.

10. Sugary foods

Many women have cravings for sweet during this period as the hormonal changes makes blood sugar levels unstable. When high sugar foods are eaten, the blood sugar levels fluctuate which leads to mood swings and tension. Not only this, it might also lead to an imbalance in immune system and can cause fatigue. Hence as a substitute to donuts type of food, one can have a fruit salad that’s rich in fiber with low-fat yogurt as topping.

11. Proper sleep

One has to make sure to get enough sleep. Sleeping re-energizes the body and makes one ready for day to day activities and makes them feel better. It is very crucial for a healthy body and helps students perform better at school and other activities.