How do I maintain vaginal health during my period?

Bottom lineMaintain vaginal health during your period with hygiene basics, not extra washing: change pads, tampons (every 4 to 8 hours), or cups regularly, wash hands before and after, clean only the vulva with water, never douche, and wipe front to back; use products that suit your skin, change tampon absorbency to the lowest that works to lower toxic shock risk, and see a clinician for symptoms that don't settle or signs of toxic shock.

Your vagina stays self-cleaning during your period, so good care is mostly about hygiene basics and changing protection regularly - not extra washing or special products.

Period hygiene basics

• Change pads, tampons, or cups regularly - tampons at least every 4 to 8 hours, pads regularly, and empty a cup as directed
• Wash your hands before and after changing products
• Wash the vulva (outside) with water or a plain product - never douche or wash inside
• Wipe front to back after the toilet

Comfort and irritation

• Choose products that suit your skin - switch if you get irritation, and consider unscented options
• Wear breathable cotton underwear and change out of damp clothing
• Give skin a break with breathable options where you can

Safety notes

• Don't leave a tampon in too long - change regularly and use the lowest absorbency that works to lower the small risk of toxic shock syndrome
• Remove one product before inserting another so a tampon isn't forgotten

When to see a clinician

See a doctor for unusual discharge, strong odor, itching, or irritation that doesn't settle after your period, or symptoms of toxic shock (sudden high fever, rash, feeling very unwell) - which is a medical emergency.

See how can I maintain healthy vaginal hygiene for everyday care.

Femora helps you track your period and any symptoms so you can notice anything that isn't settling normally.