Menstruation is a unique physiological phenomenon in women, sometimes colloquially referred to as "Aunt Flo". There are many things that women need to pay attention to during their menstrual period, such as avoiding spicy food and cold water. So, can women wash their hair during their period? Let's decrypt it together below.
1. Can women wash their hair during their period?
There is a rumor that washing hair during menstruation can cause headaches or premature aging, leading to long-term consequences. Some people actually insist on not washing their hair or taking baths during their period. But is this scientifically proven?
Obstetricians and gynecologists point out that it is perfectly fine to wash your hair and take baths during your period. Taking a hot shower during menstruation helps to dilate blood vessels and promote the flow of menstrual blood, which is beneficial for relieving menstrual pain.
However, during menstruation, the body's resistance is weakened and the cervix is dilated, increasing the risk of gynecological infections. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid cold showers and baths during your period and maintain good hygiene.
In ancient times, bathing conditions were poor, and it was easy to catch a cold by washing and bathing during menstruation. Hence, the folklore of not washing hair or taking baths during menstruation became popular. Don't believe it!
At the same time, during menstruation or postpartum, if there is bleeding in the vagina, it becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Not washing can actually increase the risk of infection.
Taking a hot shower can also reduce prostaglandin production and alleviate menstrual pain. Therefore, it is recommended to wash your hair and take baths during your period and postpartum. However, it is advised to take showers, keep warm, and dry your hair in a timely manner.
2. Tips for women's menstrual health
1. Pay attention to hygiene
Change sanitary pads frequently during your period and wash the vulva with warm water every day, preferably using a shower. When using a basin, make sure to use separate ones for each person, and wash the genital area separately from the feet.
2. Change sanitary pads frequently
During the 2-3 days of heavy menstrual flow, it is important to change sanitary pads frequently, especially at night, to avoid excessive stimulation to the perineum and the resulting infection. When changing sanitary pads, insert them from the front to the back to avoid introducing bacteria from the anus into the vagina.
3. Pay attention to the amount of menstrual flow
If the amount of menstrual flow increases, it is necessary to go to the hospital early to find out the cause. If it is caused by menstrual disorders, immediate and effective treatment should be sought. If it is caused by chronic bleeding from an intrauterine contraceptive device, switch to another contraceptive method under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Avoid sitting baths
During menstruation, the endometrium has numerous small wounds, and the cervix is open, so it is best to avoid sitting baths.
5. Avoid sexual intercourse
Sexual intercourse can easily introduce bacteria from the external genitalia and perineum into the vagina, cervix, and uterus, allowing bacteria to grow and multiply in the menstrual blood, leading to endometritis, and even causing acute salpingitis and pelvic peritonitis, or promoting endometriosis.
3. Precautions for washing hair during menstruation
1. Wash your hair two days later
The body's immune system is weakened during menstruation, so it is best not to wash your hair in the first two days of your period, as this can easily lead to menstrual pain.
2. Wash your hair with warm water
Women are more fragile during their period, and it is important to keep warm and avoid catching a cold. When washing your hands and face, use warm water, even in summer. It is also acceptable to wash your hair.
3. Avoid washing for too long
Do not wash your hair for too long during your period, as the longer you wash, the more susceptible you are to catching a cold.
4. Avoid getting cold
After washing your hair during your period, make sure to dry it in a timely manner and wear a hat before going outside, otherwise, you may experience headaches.
