Blood is a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive, which is why doctors recommend rinsing the genital area at least twice a day while on your period: in the morning and evening. It is acceptable to do this more often if you feel uncomfortable. Insufficient menstrual hygiene can lead to unpleasant consequences.
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. It is very important that you don’t disrupt its natural flora, and this is exactly what happens if you use regular soap or even specific cosmetic products for intimate hygiene. Doctors recommend washing the genital area with plain warm water without soap.
Always choose sanitary products with an absorbency level appropriate for your menstrual flow. Changing them less frequently than once in 4–8 hours (4 hours for pads and 4-8 hours for tampons) may be fraught with unpleasant consequences because a hygienic product is a breeding ground for bacteria and infections.
There is no need to deprive yourself of the pleasure of taking a bath while on your period. Normally, running water can’t do any harm. However, make sure the bathtub itself is clean since during menstruation your immune system is more susceptible to infection.
The vagina’s pH is acidic due to beneficial lactobacilli inhabiting it. They protect the body against infections and other pathogens. Many experts recommend washing the genital area with running warm water without any detergents, and some suggest using intimate hygiene products with an acidic pH of 3.8.
During the day, when you are active, your menstrual flow is normally heavier, so the pad absorbs more blood, sweat, and sebum. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which is why you shouldn’t wear one pad for more than 4 hours. When you are asleep, your bodily functions slow down and the bleeding intensity decreases, so it is acceptable to wear a pad overnight.