Women

Before Period

Preparing for your period is an important aspect of menstrual health. Indian women should track their menstrual cycles to predict when their period will start. This can be done using a simple calendar or a mobile app. It’s advisable to keep sanitary products handy, especially when traveling or at work. Being aware of premenstrual symptoms like mood changes or bloating can help in managing them better. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in iron and staying hydrated can help alleviate some pre-menstrual discomfort.

During Period

During menstruation, proper hygiene is crucial. Indian women should change their sanitary pad every 4-6 hours, or more frequently if needed, to prevent infections and odor. Staying hydrated and eating iron-rich foods can help replenish lost nutrients. For managing pain, using heat packs or engaging in gentle exercises like yoga can be beneficial. It’s important to listen to your body and rest if needed. In India, where menstrual taboos still exist in some communities, it’s important to remember that menstruation is natural and should not limit daily activities.

Post Period

After your period ends, it’s important to continue tracking your cycle. This helps in predicting future periods and noticing any irregularities. For Indian women who might be using cloth pads, ensure they are washed thoroughly and dried in sunlight to prevent infections. It’s a good time to replenish your supply of sanitary products for the next cycle. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms that persist after your period and consult a doctor if needed.

Moon Time

In India, menstruation has long been associated with lunar cycles, often referred to as ‘moon time’. While there’s no scientific evidence linking menstrual cycles to moon phases, some women find tracking the moon phases helpful in understanding their cycles. This connection can be seen as a beautiful way to connect with nature and one’s own body rhythms. However, it’s important to remember that every woman’s cycle is unique and may not align with lunar phases.

How to Handle Mood Swings

Mood swings during menstruation are common and can be challenging to manage. Recognizing that these changes are due to hormonal fluctuations is the first step. Indian women can practice self-care techniques like meditation or pranayama (breathing exercises) to reduce stress. Regular exercise and adequate sleep can also help stabilize mood. It’s important to communicate with family members about these mood changes to foster understanding and support. If mood swings are severe or disruptive to daily life, consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner or a gynecologist may be helpful.

Irregular Bleeding

Irregular bleeding can be concerning for many Indian women. Common causes include stress, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. In the Indian context, factors like nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency which is common, can also contribute to irregular bleeding. It’s important not to ignore persistent irregularities. While some variation in cycle length is normal, consistent irregularity or bleeding between periods should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Cramps

Menstrual cramps are a common concern for many Indian women. To manage cramps, using a heating pad on the lower abdomen can provide relief. Gentle exercises like yoga, particularly poses like Balasana (Child’s Pose) or Marjaryasana (Cat Pose), can help alleviate pain. Some women find relief in traditional remedies like drinking warm water with ajwain (carom seeds) or applying a paste of ginger and jaggery on the lower abdomen. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if needed, but it’s best to consult a doctor for persistent severe pain.

Vaginal Discharge

Understanding normal vaginal discharge is important for maintaining reproductive health. In India, where discussing such topics can be taboo, it’s crucial to educate women about what’s normal. Healthy discharge is usually clear or white and may change in consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. It should have a mild odor. Any significant changes in color, consistency, or odor, especially if accompanied by itching or burning, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Maintaining good hygiene and wearing breathable cotton underwear can help prevent infections.

Educating family during period

In many Indian families, menstruation is still a topic shrouded in silence and misconceptions. Educating family members about periods is crucial for creating a supportive environment. Start by sharing accurate information about menstruation, explaining it as a natural biological process. Encourage open discussions to break taboos, involving male family members in these conversations. Address common myths and misconceptions, such as the idea that menstruating women are ‘impure’. By fostering understanding and empathy within the family, we can create a more comfortable and supportive atmosphere for menstruating individuals.