You may be reluctant to take a shower during your menstrual cycle, because the sight of blood flowing copiously along with the water is likely to disturb you on days when the flow is most intense. However, it is safe and healthy to wash during your period. There are some special strategies you can take to prevent irritation, odor, and infection when you shower. You can also use other ways to keep your vagina clean between showers.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preventing Irritation, Bad Smells and Infections
Step 1. Remove the tampon, tampon or menstrual cup before taking a shower
It's not a problem if you bleed in the shower. It will flow to the drain. If you bring your tampon, the dark reddish water you see running down the shower tray is due to old blood trapped in your pubic hair. Eliminate it by rinsing. If you don't take it off, it causes odor and may even increase the risk of infections.
- Don't worry if blood stains the shower. It won't stay long enough to stain it. Keep running the water until you're done washing, then check for any traces left in the drain.
- If you need to wash in the gym or other public place, you can also hold your tampon or menstrual cup while showering.
Step 2. Shower or bathe at least once a day during your period
To prevent bad odors and reduce the risk of infection, it is necessary to wash regularly during the menstrual cycle. So, take a shower or bath at least once a day. Some doctors even recommend washing twice a day during this time, for example in the morning and evening.
If you want to take a bath, always make sure the tub is clean. If it is dirty, it can lead to vaginal infections. Clean it with a disinfectant, such as bleach, before using it
Step 3. Use lukewarm water to wash the vagina
Avoid scented and harsh cleansers and other personal care products. They are unnecessary and can cause irritation. Simple lukewarm water is the best vagina cleanser.
If you prefer to use an intimate cleanser, choose a gentle, fragrance-free one and apply a small amount to gently cleanse the outside of the vagina
advise: if the sight of blood bothers you, don't look at it! Instead, look at a spot on the shower wall or ceiling.
Step 4. Rinse from the front to the back to prevent infections
It is essential to wash the private parts (and clean them after using the bathroom) starting from the vaginal area up to the anal area in order to prevent the spread of bacteria and contamination of fecal matter in the vagina. When in the shower, run the water down the front of your body and over your vagina. If necessary, you can also spread your lips to allow water to pass between.
- If the shower head comes off, tilt it so that the water flows from the front to the back. Never proceed in reverse.
- The water pressure does not need to be strong. Adjust the delivery to the right intensity to gently rinse the vagina.
Step 5. Wash the outside of the vagina only
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, so you don't have to clean it inside, otherwise you could upset the natural pH balance, causing an infection. Do not direct the water jet inside. Only rinse the outer parts.
Step 6. Blot the outside with a clean, dry towel
Once you're done showering, use a clean, dry towel to gently pat the outside of your vagina. Do not dry the surrounding areas by rubbing. Just gently soak up the water.
If the menstrual flow is strong, you may want to dry the other parts of the body first and, finally, the vagina
Step 7. Put on clean underwear and put on a sanitary napkin right away or a swab new or one clean menstrual cup.
The cycle does not stop after washing your private parts, but you may feel that the flow will slow down after taking a bath. This phenomenon is due to the counter pressure of the water. However, you need to put on a clean pair of panties and an absorbent product right away to catch the blood.
Part 2 of 2: Treating Vaginal Hygiene Between One Shower and Another
Step 1. Use pH balanced intimate wipes as needed
You can buy special disposable cleansing wipes formulated for feminine intimate hygiene. Thanks to their balanced pH, they do not irritate and do not favor the onset of infections. Clean the outer areas of the vagina with a wipe, always moving from front to back.
- In the absence of this product, you can also use a cloth soaked in warm water. Rinse it several times with hot water, then put it in the laundry to be washed.
- Make sure the wipes are not scented, otherwise they can cause irritation.
- Generally, you can find them in the supermarket, in the aisle dedicated to women's intimate hygiene.
Step 2. Change your tampon, tampon or menstrual cup frequently to avoid bleeding and odor
If you do not change regularly the product you usually use to absorb menstrual flow, you risk staining your underwear and clothes, as well as giving off bad smells. Check it every time you go to the bathroom and change it as needed.
WarningDo not keep the tampon for more than 8 hours, otherwise you may be suffering from toxic shock syndrome.
Step 3. Avoid douches and deodorants for intimate hygiene
These products can alter the vaginal pH balance, causing infections. It is normal for the vagina to produce a slight odor. However, if it is loud or bothers you, see your gynecologist.
Sometimes, the strong odor or so-called fish odor can indicate an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis
Step 4. Wash your hands before and after changing absorbent products
Dirty hands can introduce harmful bacteria into the vagina, so it is a good idea to wash them before checking your tampon, tampon, or menstrual cup. Also, wash them after changing these products to avoid spreading the bacteria to other areas.
Advice
- Change your tampon or tampon regularly. You will feel fresher and have no unpleasant odors.
- Make sure you put a sanitary pad on your panty so you can slip it on as soon as you get out of the shower and avoid unpleasant accidents.
- If any blood runs out, use an old dark-colored towel or cloth to dry the vaginal area.
- Wear breathable clothing made from natural fibers.
