New Delhi: Menstrual hygiene is essential for the well-being of women and girls and their advancement around the world. It involves much more than just providing sanitary napkins and suitable restrooms, although, those are the most important fundamental needs. Additionally, it also entails giving girls and women a setting that respects and encourages their capacity to manage menstruation in a respectful manner.
Menstrual hygiene practices must be followed regardless of the menstrual cycle of the individual and menstruating women should be especially careful with their personal hygiene. This is because, poor menstrual hygiene can result in major health issues such as reproductive and urinary tract infections, which can cause infertility in the future and complicate labour and delivery.
In this regard, Dr Vikas Kaushal, Head of Health, Bal Raksha Bharat said, “During menstruation, a woman is more susceptible to illnesses that could be fatal. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to a variety of issues, including bacterial or fungal infections of the urinary system. UTIs, often known as urinary tract infections, are a challenging issue. These infections not only cause discomfort but also have an effect on certain urinary system components. Therefore, it is crucial for our health that we avoid and treat UTIs as soon as they occur.”
How Is UTI Caused?
Dr Vikas Kaushal said, “UTIs are typically brought on by the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract through the urethra, which connects to the bladder after periods have ended. The fundamental reason why women suffer higher gender-specific hazards is because of their anatomy. The spread of infection-causing germs is also a result of poor period hygiene and the use of low-quality period products.”
Additionally, he also provided tips to prevent UTIs after periods.
1. Keep away possible genital irritants
Some feminine hygiene items, such as deodorants, powders, and washes, might irritate the urethra. After your period, stay away from cleaning your vagina with these products.
2. Modify your birth control methods
Advice from a specialist must be taken prior to using birth control methods as some birth control methods like diaphragm increase UTI risks for women.
5. Comfortable clothing
When you have your period, wearing tight-fitting clothing might promote bacterial development in the urinary tract, which in some women can result in recurring UTIs. Therefore, cotton clothing and pants can help avoid future UTIs after periods and extra moisture near the urethra. Keeping up with proper cleanliness and drinking enough water can stop UTIs before they start.
Dr Vishesh Kasliwal, MBBS, DEM & Founder of Medyseva also added some more tips to avoid the risk of developing UTI.
1. Proper washing and wiping techniques are crucial
Wash hands before and after changing menstrual products to minimize bacterial introduction. Use mild, unscented soaps or specialized intimate washes. Wiping from front to back prevents the transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra.
2. Staying hydrated is another key aspect
Drinking adequate water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the likelihood of infection. Aim for at least eight glasses per day, or more during activities causing excessive sweating. Hydration supports overall urinary health, not just during menstruation.
3. Urinate before and after intercourse
Emptying the bladder before intercourse flushes out bacteria present in the urethra. Urinating afterwards eliminates bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract. Additionally, cleaning the genital area before and after intercourse reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.
Lastly, Dr Asha Susawat (Kumari) who is a consultant OBGY at Daffodils by Artemis, Jaipur Rajasthan highlighted the parameters of cleanliness and getting a regular checkup done to avoid such circumstances.
She said, “Use clean toilets and change your sanitary products regularly. Wash your hands before and after changing them. In addition to all that, it is also important to discard used products properly. Visit your Gynecologist for a complete annual checkup that will help to identify early signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection such as burning sensation, increased frequency of micturition, lower abdominal pain or fever.”