Best practices for menstrual hygiene
You can absolutely shower on your period, some smell is normal, birth control mainly changes flow not the basics, poor hygiene mainly matters when it leads to untreated infections, and with heavy or irregular periods the goal is frequent product changes and comfort—not suffering.
Are “organic” pads/tampons and period underwear actually better for your body (or the planet), or is it mostly marketing—and what’s a good low-waste routine that still feels hygienic and not stressful?
Organic pads and tampons are not magic but can help sensitive skin; both organic and conventional products are generally safe, while reusables like cups, discs, cloth pads, and period underwear are best for cutting waste without sacrificing hygiene if you clean and change them on schedule.
If you use tampons/cups/discs, how often do you really need to change them, and what are the red flags for TSS or an infection that mean you should stop and get checked?
Tampons should be changed every 4–8 hours (never over 8), cups and discs usually every 8–12 hours, and any sudden high fever, rash, vomiting, dizziness, or foul new odor means remove the product and get checked the same day for TSS or infection.
What’s the actual safest way to clean down there during your period (like, do you use just water, mild soap, wipes), and what should you avoid so you don’t throw off your pH?
The safest way to clean during your period is simple: wash the vulva with lukewarm water (and optional gentle unscented soap), never inside the vagina. Skip douching, scented washes, and harsh wipes so you do not disrupt your natural pH and bacteria balance.