What are general hygiene measures necessary during menstruation?
You can take the following hygiene measures during menstruation:
- Take a bath or shower at least once a day.
- Use clean undergarments and change them regularly.
- Change pads or tampons regularly.
![Illustration of bathing regularly, wearing clean clothes, change pads or tampons at least once every six hours - Menstrupedia](/assets/quickguide/hygiene/hygiene-clean.jpg)
- Wash the genital area with plain water (no soap) after each use of toilet and even after urination.
- Keep the area between the legs dry, otherwise you may experience chafing.
- It is very important to remember that vagina has its own self cleaning mechanism and an external cleaning agent like deodorant or soap should not be used inside it.
![Illustration of washing the genital region with plain water, keeping the groin area dry, Do not use deodorants or cleaning agents in the vagina - Menstrupedia](/assets/quickguide/hygiene/hygiene-wash.jpg)
References:
- unicef, Indian ministry of rural development(2008), Sharing simple facts: A guidance book on menstrual hygiene management