Maintaining vaginal hygiene can reduce your risk of vaginal and cervical infections, vaginal irritation, and even abnormal vaginal discharge, especially around menstruation. During menstruation, the balance of good bacteria in the vagina changes, creating an ideal environment for harmful bacteria and yeast to thrive.
If not taken care of, mothers can continue to experience vaginal problems during menstruation or before menstruation occurs, one of these conditions is called cyclic vulvovaginitis This is inflammation that occurs in the vulva and vagina during the menstrual cycle. This condition can cause itching and stinging in the vaginal area, which is often experienced around menstruation.
Maintaining Vaginal Hygiene During Menstruation with Feminine Antiseptics
Maintaining vaginal hygiene, especially during menstruation, is crucial and should not be done carelessly. The vagina's pH (acidity), which normally ranges from 3.8–4.5, can increase during menstruation due to hormonal changes in the female body, which increase the moisture content of the vaginal area. This, coupled with the presence of blood, increases the risk of fungal and bacterial growth and reduces the number of beneficial bacteria that maintain the vagina's natural acidity.
During menstruation, mothers are advised to regularly clean the external area of the female intimate organs using clean running water, mothers can also add the use of feminine antiseptics containing... Povidone-Iodine, especially if you have a history of infections in the feminine area, clean the vaginal area by washing from front to back and not vice versa, then dry thoroughly to avoid bacteria entering the vagina, both when bathing, after urinating, or when changing sanitary napkins. The use of a feminine antiseptic with Povidone - Iodine can be done once or twice a day to prevent or reduce infections around the vaginal area.
In addition, mothers also need to change sanitary napkins every 3–4 hours, wear comfortable, absorbent underwear such as natural cotton and not too tight, and engage in healthy sexual activity.
An antiseptic solution containing povidone-iodine can also be used for other conditions such as recurrent vaginal discharge, itching due to yeast infections, vaginal odor, and mild irritation after waxing. Povidone-iodine is known to be effective against bacteria and fungi that cause vaginal infections.
Regularly maintaining intimate hygiene can help you avoid various symptoms that often bother you during menstruation. If you have other concerns, you should consult a doctor first.
