Period Power: MHM: A guide to menstrual hygiene management

Let’s talk periods! It’s a normal woman’s life process but statistically, it is not well understood
and the information regarding it is unclear most of the time. We are here today to inform you
about understanding and managing your period in a powerful way.

What is the definition of Menstrual Hygiene Management also known as MHM in one
phrase?

MHM stands for Menstrual Hygiene Management. Interacting with oneself during menses
means bonding with the body. It requires the use of cloth which is hygienic and provides
disposal using an efficient and health-friendly method. This involves having a means of getting
drinking water and sanitation facilities since this is the way to keep your body clean.

Understanding Your Cycle

Period is a natural process of your reproductive system where the uterine lining is shed once a
month. It takes place during a specific period, generally between 8 and 12 years old, and comes
to a halt when menopause takes place, which is about 45-55 years old. The average menstrual
cycle spans 28 days. However, the duration of the menstrual cycle varies significantly between
women.
Here are some common experiences during your period:

Bleeding: Blood loss is possible which may cause painful periods or lower back pain.
Mood swings: Changes in hormone levels may lead to emotional variants such as moodiness,
anger, or anxiety.
Bloating: Maybe you will experience swelling, or puffiness due to water retention.
Breast tenderness: Your breasts may feel achy or puffy some days.

Please note that these symptoms are totally normal and nothing to panic about. However, do
not forget that primary symptoms like high temperature, intense pain, heavy bleeding that lasts
more than a week, and unusual discharge must be reported to a doctor.

Spilling Period Myths

You hear a lot of myths and misinformation about periods.

Myth: During menstruation, it is often known that you can’t exercise.
Fact: Indeed, sporting exercise is just as good for period pain. It serves this purpose through
the release of those great mood boosters, known as endorphins, and also by relieving pain.

Myth: Hair washing is prohibited during menstrual periods since shampoos don’t go with the
trustworthiness of different sanitary options.

Fact: Your period doesn’t mean that you will not grow hair. Wash it normally to keep up your
cleanliness routine by washing it normally to maintain good cleanliness.

Myth: During the swimming sessions, you can’t swim with a period.
Fact: A fact that cannot be denied is that swimming during periods is possible. Either get a
tampon or a cup for menstruation instead of a pad.

When you encounter more myths about menstruation again, don’t hesitate to research and seek
sources that can provide you with correct information on the subject.

Hygienic and sanitary disposal of menstrual products.

Many kinds of menstrual products are on the market, so you can go with the ones that suit you
in the best way. Here’s a rundown of the most common ones:

Pads: Single-use and they are available in different sizes and levels of absorbency.
Tampons: They are placed in the vagina to absorb blood and prevent leaks.
Menstrual Cups: These are silicone cups that can be put on and off repeatedly when used for
menstrual blood collection.
Period Panties: Thus, there are pads that are made of absorbent material and can be washed
and reused.

The selection of the proper application depends on whether it suits you, is clean, and helps you.
Be sure to always follow the package instructions for safe and proper use.

Safe Disposal of Sanitary Products
Healthy disposal of used menstrual items is vital for hygiene and the environment. Here’s what
to do:

● Throw away the used pads/tampons by wrapping them in toilet paper and putting them
into a rubbish bin.
● Rinse the cup well, let it empty to the toilet and then reinsert.
● Period panties can be washed with regular cleaning products.
● Do not flush sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups down the toilet under any
circumstance! This can be the reason for the toilet blockage.

Managing Period Pain:

Heat therapy: Use a heating pad or a hot water bottle and place it on the lower abdomen.
Warm baths: Try a soothing warm bath to ease the cramps and relax the muscles.
Light exercise: Take a walk or practice a little yoga for better circulation and lower pain levels.

Menstrual products can be a luxury item for girls in low-income families and they are often
forced to use unhygienic solutions during their time of the month. This poor hygiene can lead to
them staying away from school and enhances the chances of infections. Without the availability
of adequate toilets and sanitation amenities, they are only making their periods management
more challenging which in turn affects their health and education.