Imagine being excited and eagerly waiting to go on a vacation after a hectic schedule. And then, the next moment, your period knocks at your door. Travelling is fun, but one has to be careful when travelling during menstruation. For women, those five days are the most challenging times of the month. From mood swings to cramps, they go through a lot. To ensure that there are no infections or problems while travelling, extreme caution about hygiene and good care must be taken.
We spoke to our expert, Dr Alka Tiwari, a renowned general practitioner with extensive experience in the field of women's health and hygiene. She is currently empanelled with Mildcares (GynoCup), a startup dedicated to providing women with access to high-quality healthcare products and services. In this article, she explains how to maintain menstrual hygiene while travelling.
Expert Tips To Maintain Menstrual Hygiene When Travelling
Maintaining menstrual hygiene while travelling can be challenging, especially if you're not prepared. Here are some tips to help you stay clean and comfortable during your period:
1. Pack enough supplies
Make sure you pack enough pads, tampons, or menstrual cups for your trip. Bring more than you think you will need in case of unexpected delays or heavier flow than anticipated. It is always better to be prepared than to find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to sanitary pads or menstrual cups.
2. Carry a small bag
Carry a small bag or pouch with you that contains your menstrual supplies, wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and disposable bags to dispose-off used products. This will ensure your hygiene is taken care of and you don’t end up spoiling the public toilets.
Also Read: Healthy Munchies For Diabetics When Travelling
3. Choose comfortable clothing
When travelling during menstruation, it's important to choose comfortable clothing that will keep you feeling fresh and dry. Consider wearing breathable fabrics, such as cotton or bamboo, which will allow the air to circulate and prevent odours. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, as they can cause chafing and discomfort.
4. Use hand sanitiser
Use hand sanitiser before and after changing your menstrual products to keep your hands clean and prevent the spread of germs.
5. Keep hygiene wash handy
The market is now flooded with hygiene products to ensure that the delicate part of the body is clean and infection free. Carry that while travelling and use it whenever possible.
Also Read: 8 Healthcare Tips To Stay Healthy While Travelling
6. Avoid public restrooms
Try to avoid using public restrooms, as they may not be clean or stocked with necessary supplies. If you must use a public restroom, bring your toilet paper, and avoid touching surfaces as much as possible. Use toilet seat paper as you can protect yourself and ensure you don’t get infected during the trip.
7. Take a shower
If possible, take a shower regularly to stay clean and fresh. If you're unable to shower, use wet wipes to clean your genital area.
8. Drink plenty of water
Drinking enough water is essential when travelling, especially while menstruating. Staying hydrated helps prevent bloating and cramps. It also helps to flush out toxins and keep your body healthy. Make sure to carry a refillable water bottle with you and drink water regularly throughout the day.
Takeaway
Travelling can be a challenging time for maintaining menstrual hygiene, but with some preparation and awareness, it's possible to stay clean and comfortable. By following these tips, you can maintain good menstrual hygiene while travelling and enjoy your trip without any discomfort or embarrassment. These tips will help you make your travel easy and memorable, and you will not think twice before travelling during your menstrual cycle.
