Periods are a natural and healthy part of life for those who menstruate, yet the importance of menstrual hygiene often gets overlooked in day-to-day care. While most people focus on choosing the right sanitary product, pain relief methods, or dietary choices, one simple habit can make a huge difference — washing your hands before and after handling menstrual products. This small step has a big impact on your health and hygiene.

🧼 Why Is Handwashing So Important During Periods?

Your hands come into contact with various surfaces and objects throughout the day, picking up invisible germs and bacteria. During menstruation, you often need to insert or remove sanitary products like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Touching these products — or your intimate area — with unwashed hands can lead to infections or irritation.

🕒 When Should You Wash Your Hands?

• Before changing or inserting any menstrual product

• After removing a pad, tampon, or menstrual cup

• After disposing of used products

• Before and after cleaning reusable menstrual products (like cups or cloth pads)

🚫 What Happens If You Skip Handwashing?

Not washing your hands during your period can lead to:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

• Yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis

• Skin rashes or irritation near the vulva

• Contamination of reusable menstrual products

Your menstrual blood itself isn't dirty, but introducing bacteria into sensitive areas can disturb your body's natural balance and cause discomfort or health issues.

✅ How to Wash Your Hands the Right Way

Step-by-step guide:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water.

2. Apply soap and lather well, covering all surfaces of your hands.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds — don’t forget the back of your hands, between fingers, and under nails.

4. Rinse thoroughly under running water.

5. Dry with a clean towel or air dryer.

🕓 Tip: Think of a quick 20-second song to hum while washing your hands — like “Happy Birthday” twice.

🌍 Additional Hygiene Tips for Period Care

• Always carry hand sanitizer if you’re on the go.

• Use clean, dry hands to insert or remove products.

• Clean your menstrual cup or reusable pad thoroughly after every use.

• Dispose of used pads or tampons hygienically — wrap them properly and discard in a covered bin.

• Change products regularly (every 4–6 hours) to avoid odor, leakage, and infection.

👩‍⚕️ Final Thoughts

Washing your hands before and after changing menstrual products is a basic yet powerful habit. It's not just about feeling clean — it’s about protecting your health, preventing infections, and promoting a culture of responsible period care. Whether you're at home, at work, or traveling, this small act of self-care supports your body’s wellbeing throughout the cycle.

Make hand hygiene a non-negotiable part of your period routine — because your health deserves it, every single day.