ASHA ShikshaAdolescent & Women's Health · 2/4
Periods and menstrual hygiene
calendar_monthPeriods are normal
Periods (menstruation) usually start between 10 and 15 years of age. A normal cycle comes every 21 to 35 days and bleeding lasts 2 to 7 days. It is a normal, healthy body process, not an illness or something dirty.
Talk to girls about periods before they start, so they are not scared.
clean_handsStaying clean
Use a clean sanitary pad or a clean cotton cloth. Change it every 4 to 6 hours. Wash reusable cloth with soap and dry it in sunlight. Wrap used pads in paper and put them in a dustbin, or burn or bury them. Wash hands before and after changing.
Drying cloth in the sun kills germs. Do not hide it in a dark, damp place.
lightbulbBreak the myths
During periods a girl can bathe, go to school, play, cook and eat all normal foods, including sour foods. There is no need to keep her separate from the family.
Talk to mothers too — they decide many home rules.
warningWhen to refer
Refer to the doctor if: bleeding is very heavy (a pad soaked in 1 to 2 hours), bleeding lasts more than 7 days, very severe pain, no period for 3 months (and not pregnant), or no periods at all by 15 years of age.
Heavy periods can cause anaemia. Check her Hb.
infoFor training ASHA workers. Always follow your ANM, Medical Officer and the latest Government guidelines. In an emergency, call 108.