5 common period mistakes to avoid

5 common period mistakes to avoid

A period is the time of the menstrual cycle when the uterine lining sheds in the form of blood. A typical cycle lasts anywhere between 24 and 38 days. Some of the most common symptoms a woman feels during her period include cramps, mood changes, trouble sleeping, headaches, bloating, breast tenderness, and acne. Certain mistakes can add to the discomfort one feels during their period, and therefore, must be avoided.

Using scented toilet paper, tampons, or pads
Scented sanitary products may sound appealing but it can be quite irritating and may even cause burn-like symptoms. Ideally, one should stick to using fragrance-free hygiene products that are free of additives like aloe to maintain the pH levels around the vulva. Those with extremely sensitive skin may also benefit from using organic sanitary products that are free of chemicals such as pesticides.

Douching the vagina and vulva
The word “douche” is the French translation for “wash” or “soak.” Many women use this method to wash out the vagina during or after their period as they think it helps them feel cleaner. However, the vagina is a self-cleaning organ and douching can throw off the pH balance of one’s nether regions, making them more susceptible to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), one should avoid douching, as some amount of vaginal odor and discharge is normal. This odor also changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Gently cleaning the vulva and the surrounding skin with warm water and a mild soap is enough. However, a strong odor or unusual discharge may be a sign of infection and may require medical attention.

Not changing sanitary products frequently
Never leave a pad or tampon on for longer than eight hours. Ideally, they should be changed every 3-4 hours. With tampons being left in for too long, there is a risk of toxic shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening. Although pads do not expose one to the same risk, wearing it for too long can be uncomfortable, and cause rashes.

Drinking too much coffee
Excessive coffee intake can cause water retention and bloating, lead to digestive issues, and increase the intensity of headaches. However, not consuming any caffeine can also cause headaches for those who are used to drinking multiple cups of coffee regularly. During one’s period, it is best to reduce coffee consumption to 1-2 cups per day.

Giving in to salt and sugar cravings
Eating foods that are high in salt, such as processed foods and cured meats, can increase the chances of bloating. While it is okay to consume the recommended amount of sugar, eating too much of it can cause spikes in energy levels, followed by a crash, which can worsen mood swings.

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common complaints in women who have difficult periods. Painkillers are generally prescribed to manage the pain. For those experiencing severe cramps and pains, doctors may suggest the use of oral contraceptives. The contraceptives help reduce the amount of prostaglandins produced by the body, which results in decreased contractions of the uterus, and reduced pain levels. However, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional before using oral contraceptives and not skip follow-up appointments to properly manage period pain.
It is also recommended to stay hydrated when menstruating as water can help manage hormonal bloating and swelling better.

Popular Reads

Here’s how you can get your allergies detected

Here’s how you can get your allergies detected

How many times have allergies caused you to sneeze every time you take a ride in the open air? Or rashes on coming in contact with a plant? Or swelling as a result of a peanut allergy? Sneezing, running noses, watery eyes, rashes, swelling all these reactions due to allergies can be quite distressing. Allergies are more common and can be caused by various things. The cause of allergies is still unknown, it could be genetic or just a singular development. However, they can be easily detected by just visiting your doctor and undergoing some tests. Read on to know more about what are allergies and how to detect them. What are allergies? The immune system is designed to fight any entrant in the body that it recognizes as foreign. However, at times, the immune system becomes over vigilant and starts fighting foreign entrants that are not harmful. Substances that cause the immune system to react this way are called “allergens”, and when you display symptoms of these interactions, you are diagnosed “allergic” to the substance. Allergens can include plants, grass, pollen, dust, food, animal dander among others. While symptoms like running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, rashes, itching, and others, are all attributed to allergic reactions.
5 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease

5 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease

A common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating and progressive disease that affects the brain and motor functions of the body. The disease progresses through stages. It begins to affect the regions of the brain that control language, thought, and memory. In most of the cases, it begins with a slight memory loss. In the final stages, Alzheimer’s disease leads to the loss of various abilities including motor skills, speech, and independent movement. Here are a few frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s. What are the causes? Alzheimer’s disease does not have any definite cause. Research has been unable to conclude whether Alzheimer’s is developed by one cause or multiple ones. The exact cause of the ailment is not yet known. However, there are multiple factors that may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. One of the major causes is ageism. Also, a family history of Alzheimer’s is another major risk. This may lead to the inheritance of genes that cause this disease. Some other possible risk factors that can cause Alzheimer’s include high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and high cholesterol. What are the symptoms? In most cases, the first warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease is a loss of cognitive ability.
Four important steps in anemia management

Four important steps in anemia management

Hemoglobin is a protein molecule in the red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Its richness in iron gives blood its red color. Anemia is a condition where a person has low hemoglobin or red blood cell count. From an underlying disease to nutrient deficiencies, there are a lot of factors that contribute to the onset of this condition. There are many forms of anemia. Some of them include: Iron deficiency anemia -This is caused due to low iron levels in the blood. Most common causes of this type of anemia are heavy menstruation or internal bleeding. Vitamin deficiency anemia – This type of anemia is caused by the deficiency of vitamin C, B-12 or folate Aplastic anemia – Damaged stem cells in the bone marrow fail to produce enough red blood cells, leading to aplastic anemia. Sickle cell anemia – This is a condition characterized by the development of abnormal crescent-shaped red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia – This is a blood disorder caused due to premature death of red blood cells. Thalassemia – This is caused due to low amounts of hemoglobin in the blood. The blood disorders vary in duration and severity. Prompt diagnosis, and treatment are important because anemia could also be due to an underlying condition.