Latest news with #MenstrualHygieneDay
Hindustan Times
9 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is your menstrual product safe? Doctor shares menstrual hygiene guide
The menstrual products we choose have a direct impact on our reproductive health. While comfort and convenience often guide our preferences, it's crucial to understand which products are safe to use in order to maintain proper menstrual hygiene and prevent health risks. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Jalagam Kavya Rao, regional medical head, Oasis Fertility said, 'The majority of menstrual products contain toxins that can irritate the vaginal area and can lead to serious conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a known cause of infertility.' Also read | Do you shower more during your periods? Doctor shares the right menstrual hygiene routine Menstrual cups: Among the environmentally friendly and safe products are menstrual cups. The medical-grade silicone used to make these cups is hypoallergenic, reusable, and chemical-free. Before reusing it, it must be properly cleaned. Cotton pads: Reusable cloth pads are made of natural fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, etc. They offer a breathable, chemical-free alternative to synthetic disposable pads, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. Organic tampons: Just like reusable cloth pads, organic sanitary pads or cotton tampons are very friendly to your vaginal health as they don't contain any toxins or chemicals, which cause irritation or vaginal infections. Period underwear: Period underwear looks like regular underwear, but it has a multi-layer gusset designed for leak-proof absorbency. However, most of the period underwear has PFAS, a synthetic chemical group that disrupts your reproductive health. If you are someone who prefers period underwear, then it should be PFAS-free. Also read | Doctor shares 5 important period hygiene tips that every young girl should follow for stress-free menstrual cycles 'Menstrual products that contain plastics, synthetic fragrances, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are unsafe for your reproductive health, as they can upset the vagina's pH, lead to infections or irritation, and eventually throw off the balance of hormones,' the doctor explained. • Prior to and following product changes, wash your hands. • Change cups every 6 to 12 hours and tampons/pads every 4 to 8 hours. • For less exposure, use low-absorbency unscented products. • Discontinue the product if you have come across any irritation signs. Also read | Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024: Severe health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Do you shower more during your periods? Doctor shares the right menstrual hygiene routine
Menstruation is a natural biological process, but maintaining proper hygiene during periods is essential to prevent infections and ensure overall well-being. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manjusha Goel, lead consultant, dept of obstetrics and gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi said, 'One common question is whether individuals should shower more frequently during their period. The short answer is yes, but not excessively.' Also read | Doctor shares 5 important period hygiene tips that every young girl should follow for stress-free menstrual cycles The doctor explained that one shower a day is enough. 'A daily shower is typically sufficient for maintaining cleanliness and comfort during menstruation. Unless someone is experiencing heavy bleeding, has had a leak, or feels particularly sweaty, there's usually no need to bathe more than once a day. However, on days when the flow is heavier or after physical activity, a quick rinse in the evening can help them feel fresher and reduce the risk of odor or irritation,' she added. 'An ideal hygiene routine during menstruation includes a lukewarm shower once a day. While hot water may feel soothing, it can temporarily increase blood flow by dilating blood vessels. During the shower, it's important to gently clean only the outer genital area, the vulva, using water or a mild, fragrance-free soap. The vagina is self-cleaning, so using soaps or washes internally can disrupt its natural pH balance and increase the risk of irritation or infection,' the doctor added. Also read | Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024: Severe health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene Menstrual products: Changing menstrual products regularly is just as important. Regardless of the flow, pads and tampons should be changed every 4 to 6 hours. For those using menstrual cups, these can often be used for up to 12 hours but may need to be emptied more frequently during heavy flow days to maintain hygiene and prevent leakage. Wear breathable fabrics: Wearing clean, breathable underwear made of cotton also helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to discomfort or infections. It's best to avoid tight or synthetic fabrics during this time. Also read | Menstrual Hygiene Day: 10 must-have period products for a stain and stress-free cycle Wiping technique: Proper wiping technique is another key part of menstrual hygiene, always wiping from front to back helps reduce the risk of bacteria spreading to the urinary or vaginal area. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
The politics of periods: why India cannot afford to ignore menstrual health
Imagine Priya, a bright 13-year-old in a village nestled miles from the nearest town. Her first period arrives not with understanding or support, but with hushed warnings and a palpable sense of shame, passed down through generations. Given a rough, inadequate piece of cloth, she's quietly instructed to avoid the kitchen, refrain from touching the shared water pot, and crucially, stay home from school during those five days each month. The school's basic toilet lacks water, privacy, and disposal facilities, making managing her period there an unthinkable ordeal. Fearful of leaks, whispers, and breaking unspoken rules, Priya isolates herself, her education disrupted, her potential dimmed with each recurring cycle. Priya's story, sadly, is not unique. It echoes the lived experience of countless girls and women across India, particularly in rural areas. As Menstrual Hygiene Day observed on May 28 prompts reflection, it is crucial to acknowledge that while awareness around menstruation is growing in India, it remains largely absent from the mainstream political agenda and public discourse. Menstrual health is often relegated as a 'women's issue,' shrouded in a pervasive culture of silence and coloured by patriarchal notions that limit knowledge and open conversation. This silence translates into a chronic health and social challenge, where many lack adequate information, access to necessary products, and face stigma, impacting their well-being and participation in society. While efforts to distribute sanitary pads are visible and sometimes feature in government schemes, we must recognise that true access demands a fundamental shift beyond products towards systemic policy change and robust infrastructure. A complex reality Focusing solely on period product distribution dangerously simplifies this complex reality. While commendable progress has been made, with National Family Health Survey-5 data indicating that around 78% of individuals who menstruate in India may use commercial period products, this statistic masks a deeper infrastructural gap. The figure plummets dramatically when we consider those who have access to both products and essential water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities – clean, private toilets with water and soap. Shockingly, only about 27.7% benefit from this comprehensive access. This stark difference highlights a critical point: distributing pads achieves little genuine progress towards dignified menstrual health if individuals lack the basic infrastructure needed to manage their periods hygienically and privately, particularly in schools and public spaces. This lack of essential WASH facilities remains a persistent barrier, often highlighted during crises that disrupt normal life. The current political landscape shows some commendable, albeit limited, steps. Various Central and State government schemes, such as those under the National Health Mission or State-specific initiatives like 'Asmita Yojana' in Maharashtra or 'Swechcha' in Andhra Pradesh, aim to provide subsidised or free sanitary napkins, primarily targeting adolescent girls in schools. While valuable, these initiatives often face limitations. Their focus frequently excludes women outside the school system, those in the workforce, or other vulnerable groups. Additionally, distribution can be hampered by external factors like school closures, and the focus often remains narrowly on disposable pads, without adequately expanding knowledge on diverse, sustainable options like menstrual cups (despite pioneering efforts in States like Kerala and Karnataka) or addressing the crucial need for safe disposal and the environmental impact of sanitary pads. This lack of strong, consistent political backing, often stemming from the underrepresentation of women and their allies in decision-making spaces, means menstrual health remains a relatively neglected public health concern, susceptible to policy oversights like initial exclusion from essential items lists during emergencies or debates around taxation. Integration into national policy framework Therefore, building a truly stigma-free, inclusive menstrual health infrastructure demands its integration into the core of our national policy framework. This means legislating for mandatory, comprehensive, and scientifically accurate menstrual health education within school curricula for all students, treating it not just as biology but as essential for equity and empowerment. It requires prioritising and funding national standards for MHM-friendly WASH facilities in all public institutions – viewing this as critical infrastructure essential for public health, education continuity, and enabling of full economic participation. Health policy must be reformed to train healthcare providers for sensitive care, integrate MHM screening and treatment into primary healthcare, ensure insurance coverage, and use inclusive language for all who menstruate. Fair fiscal policies, such as eliminating discriminatory taxes on essential menstrual products and exploring targeted subsidies, are needed to ensure affordability is not a barrier to dignity. Policy levers should encourage supportive workplace environments with adequate facilities and understanding for menstrual health needs, recognising its impact on labour force participation. Crucially, these comprehensive interventions must be framed not as an expenditure, but as a strategic political and economic investment. Ensuring economic viability requires moving beyond siloed projects. Funding for MHM should be integrated into existing budgets for Health, Education, WASH, Gender Equality, and Rural/Urban Development, leveraging existing political and administrative structures. Smart fiscal tools like tax reform and targeted subsidies offer cost-effective ways to improve access. Supporting local social enterprises producing affordable, sustainable menstrual products can boost local economies, create jobs, and reduce import dependency, aligning with national development goals. Most importantly, policymakers must recognise and champion the significant return on investment: improved educational attainment, increased workforce participation, better public health outcomes, and accelerated gender equality far outweigh the costs. The economic and social cost of inaction – perpetuated by silence and policy neglect – actively undermines India's broader development objectives. This Menstrual Hygiene Day, the call must be for decisive political action. We need political leaders and parties to champion menstrual health not as a marginal issue, but as fundamental to human rights, public health, and national progress. It requires integrating MHM robustly into national development plans, legislative agendas, and resource allocation. While the efforts of NGOs and local champions are vital, sustainable change at scale hinges on political will. It is time to break the silence in our policy chambers and build an India where everyone can manage their menstruation with dignity, safety, and informed choice – unlocking the full potential of half our population. (Karan Babbar is an incoming assistant professor at Plaksha University. Email: phd17karanb@
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Menstrual health matters: Why menstrual hygiene must be a right, not a privilege
What Every Girl Deserves: Safe, Clean, and Shame-Free Periods In today's world, the taboo surrounding menstruation is not just a women's issue but has transformed as a major public health issue. Despite being a natural bodily function, instead of receiving the required basic tools for effective management and hygiene, menstruation is still surrounded with social stigma and become 'not-to talk about' a topic. Menstrual Hygiene Day serves both as a reminder and a call to action for something that is natural and a routine – Menstruation. It is startling to see how menstruation is still surrounded with so much silence, stigma and misinformation, that many girls and women have suffered in silence both physically and emotionally, just because of lack of support and right information surrounding periods. Menstrual hygiene has come way long far than just the use of sanitary pads or other products, and now raises the need for ensuring safe materials, access to cleanliness, availability of private and hygienic place to change and safe disposal, and at last, having the correct knowledge on how to care for one's body during these times. However, many girls and women, especially in the rural and low-income settings, are still deprived of these basic needs and knowledge. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo It has been witnessed that in such settings where school going girls do not have access to hygienic products of washrooms in schools, often tend to skip schools on these particular days or even drop out altogether. Poor menstrual hygiene is also responsible for infections like UTI or RTI, skin issues etc. But going beyond these physical traumas, the silent emotional toll of embarrassment, shame and isolation also severely impacts their confidence and self-esteem. Apart from the mental strain and emotional trauma, some of the most common complications associated with poor menstrual hygiene include – 1. UTI's and infections – If the sanitary pads are not clean or changed timely, this leads to multiplication of bacteria rapidly leading to painful infections, and in some cases lead to long term reproductive health complications. 2. Risk of rashes and Skin irritation – Prolonged wearing of same pad or using inappropriate material can lead to itching, fungal infections or even rashes. 3. Elevated risk of HPV infections – Repetitive infections can lead to chronic inflammation, developing a vulnerable environment for more serious complications, especially in the cervix. This can raise the risk of developing HPV infection. Basic but Essential tips to maintain Good Menstrual Hygiene Maintaining good menstrual hygiene, need not be complicated or expensive, but following the below mentioned basic tips will work – 1. Cleanliness and comfort - Choose the best suited sanitary product, which is clean and comfortable, be it sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cup or even reusable cloth pad. 2. Change Frequently - As the thumb rule says, it is advisable to change every 4-6 hours or sooner if required. 3. Wash with clean water – During every change, warm water is usually enough to clean the area, and avoid using any harsh soaps or intimate washes. 4. Sensible Disposal – before discarding the used pads, wrap it in paper, or if one is using reusable cloth pads, then it is advised to wash the cloth properly and dry it in sunlight before next use. These might seem like small steps, but together they can prevent a range of problems and make a huge difference to overall well-being. Everything Starts at Home! Even today, in many homes, menstruation is still a stigma, considered a quiet topic, which is often perceived by daughters in whispers with misinformation, being too late, frightening or confusing. Ans in some parts of our country girls are still considered as impure during their menses, and not allowed to cook, go to temples, or even sit at common places in house. All this need to change. Mothers should be responsible to make their daughters feel comfortable to talk about their first period(menarche), and the school education should also include boys on this topic. The more we normalize it, the less stigma there will be. (Dr. Mannan Gupta, Chairperson & HOD, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi) One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Weekly Recap: 13 Consumer Press Releases You Need to See
A roundup of the most newsworthy consumer and retail announcements from PR Newswire this week, including a new dishwasher designed for accessibility and LGBTQIA+ initiatives for the upcoming Pride Month. NEW YORK, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With thousands of press releases published each week, it can be difficult to keep up with everything on PR Newswire. To help consumer/retail journalists and consumers stay on top of the week's most newsworthy and popular releases, here's a recap of some major stories from the week that shouldn't be missed. The list below includes the headline (with a link to the full text) and an excerpt from each story. Click on the press release headlines to access accompanying multimedia assets that are available for download. PepsiCo® Announces Worldwide Official Partnership With Formula 1®As an Official Partner of Formula 1, PepsiCo has secured comprehensive rights, including: TV-visible trackside advertising; Fan Zone activation opportunities at 21 races; tickets and hospitality experiences; exclusive marketing rights for featured brands; and exclusive track pouring and product supply rights, across global race venues. Menstrual Hygiene Day: More women are turning to reusable menstrual products--but myths still hold some backAs awareness around sustainability and menstrual health grows, more women are making the switch to reusable period products. A recent Intimina survey reveals that 88.22% of respondents use reusable menstrual products at least some of the time, with 44.44% choosing them every cycle. Casio to Release New MT-G Featuring an Original Frame Co-Created by Humans and AIThe new MTG-B4000 is a shock-resistant watch featuring a distinctive frame that was developed in a process of collaboration between human designers and generative AI and uses a combination of different materials. For the first time in a Casio consumer timepiece, generative AI technology was integrated into the development process. Pizza Hut Debuts First-Ever BOOK IT!® AppThe new app officially launched this month and is designed to help parents keep their children engaged in reading all summer long. This new digital tool empowers families to track progress of their child's reading, set goals and earn pizza rewards all while preventing the "Summer Slide." Whirlpool Brand Launches Spin&Load Dishwasher Rack, the Most Inclusive Lower-Level Dishwasher Rack Design on the MarketAs the most inclusive lower-level dishwasher rack design on the market, Spin&Load Rack features an easy-to-use, 360o spinning design to allow easy access to all areas of the lower rack of the dishwasher, reducing the need for individuals to reach or reposition themselves while loading and unloading their dishes. US Consumer Confidence Partially Rebounds in MayMay's rebound in confidence was broad-based across all age groups and all income groups. It was also shared across all political affiliations, with the strongest improvements among Republicans. Sparkle Season Starts Now: Shein X Viola & Vesper Launch a Dreamy Collection Made for Main Character MomentsKnown for crafting styles that embrace bold self-expression, Viola & Vesper draws inspiration from revolutionary fashion muses and the vibrant contrast of East and West. In this limited-edition collab, the label's signature sparkle comes to life in standout dresses, matching sets, and statement jumpsuits, all at accessible price points. Pamela Anderson Named the New Face of Biolage Professional Hair SpaThis milestone partnership arrives on the heels of Biolage's extensive brand relaunch, which redefined its commitment to sustainability, innovation and elevated self-care, with the same great results via vegan, cruelty-free formulas in new eco-friendly packaging. As a passionate advocate for animal rights and clean living, Anderson perfectly embodies the brand's new wellness-first, restorative approach to haircare. Sally Beauty Partners with Free Mom Hugs to Support the LGBTQIA+ Community At Local Pride Events Across the NationThroughout June, Sally Beauty and Free Mom Hugs will host booths at local Pride festivals and parades, offering a space filled with inspiration and community building. Sally Beauty will distribute 5,000 gift cards* at the events to help attendees discover products that promote self-confidence and self-expression. Burt's Bees™ and Mike's Hot Honey® Turn Up the Heat with Limited-Edition Lip Balm CollabKnown for pioneering the swicy sensation that's taken over restaurant menus and grocery aisles, Mike's Hot Honey brings serious buzz wherever it goes — and this time, it's heating up your everyday lip care routine. The limited-edition balm combines the Burt's Bees beeswax lip balm formula with a bold hot honey flavor, for soft lips with a kick. The Hefty® Brand Celebrates 60 Years of Strength with Limited-Edition Birthday Cake-Scented Trash BagsTo put a festive spin on household cleanup, the brand infused the familiar 20-count 13-gallon tall kitchen trash bags with the nostalgic scent of vanilla frosting and rainbow sprinkles – bringing a bit of birthday magic to trash day. Paris Baguette Celebrates One Million PB Rewards Members with Free Pastry OfferExclusively on Monday, June 2, PB Rewards members can enjoy a free pastry with any purchase as a token of appreciation and gratitude for their loyalty. Paris Baguette guests who are not yet enrolled in PB Rewards can also enjoy a free pastry with their first purchase when they download the mobile app and sign up. AMASS Botanics Team Launches Afterdream - A New Brand of Microdosed, Non-Alcoholic Cannabis BeveragesMade with organic hemp-derived cannabis extract, functional botanicals, and plant-based ingredients, Afterdream offers a playful, refreshing flavor profile with a bright tropical flavor, a nostalgic homage to a classic tropical punch. The beverage is non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and additives — making it as thoughtful as it is flavorful. For more news like this, check out all of the latest retail-related releases from PR Newswire. Do you have a retail press release to distribute? Sign up with PR Newswire to share your story with the audiences who matter most. Helping Journalists Stay Up to Date on Industry News These are just a few of the recent press releases that consumers and the media should know about. To be notified of releases relevant to their coverage area, journalists can set up a custom newsfeed with PR Newswire for Journalists. Once they're signed up, reporters, bloggers, and freelancers have access to the following free features: Customization: Users can create customized newsfeeds that will deliver relevant news right to their inbox. Newsfeed results can be targeted by keywords, industry, subject, geography, and more. Photos and Videos: Thousands of multimedia assets are available to download and include in a journalist or blogger's next story. Subject Matter Experts: Journalists will have access to ProfNet, a database of industry experts to connect with as sources or for quotes in their articles. Related Resources: Our journalist- and blogger-focused blog, Beyond Bylines, features regular media news roundups, writing tips, upcoming events, and more. About PR Newswire PR Newswire is the industry's leading press release distribution partner with an unparalleled global reach of more than 440,000 newsrooms, websites, direct feeds, journalists and influencers and is available in more than 170 countries and 40 languages. From our award-winning Content Services offerings, integrated media newsroom and microsite products, Investor Relations suite of services, paid placement and social sharing tools, PR Newswire has a comprehensive catalog of solutions to solve the modern-day challenges PR and communications teams face. For 70 years, PR Newswire has been the preferred destination for brands to share their most important news stories across the world. For questions, contact the team at View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE PR Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
