PAD JUJU: THE CANCER CONNECTION?

Safer in sanitary napkins, we speak to experts about After a study found cancer-causing chemicals alternatives and maintaining optimum menstrual hygiene

Arecent study conducted by a Delhi-based environmental NGO came out with findings linking heart disorders, diabetes and cancer with popular sanitary napkins sold in India. It found the presence of phthalates (endocrine-disrupting chemicals) and volatile organic compounds in a total of 10 samples — six inorganic and four organic pads available in the market.

“Any substance containing phthalates and volatile organic compounds is cancer-causing, besides increasing the risk of brain impairment, asthma, disabilities and disrupting the proper functioning of the reproductive system,” says Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynaecologist-obstetrician, and IVF specialist at Nurture Clinic, adding, “The chemicals present in menstrual pads such as bisphenol A, bisphenol S, bleach, pesticide, dioxin dyes and fragrance chemicals are dangerous components linked to a variety of health concerns.”

WHAT CAN BE DONE? Currently, disposable sanitary pads are the most popular menstrual products worldwide, the study said. Most menstruators use sanitary pads as a first-choice product for an estimated average of 1,800 days in their lifetime. After this study making rounds on the internet, many have begun to wonder if they should find safer alternatives. Dr Birbala Rai, senior consultant, Gynaecology, PSRI

Hospital, is of the opinion that though alternatives such as menstrual cups, tampons and panty liners exist, good-quality, branded napkins can be used, too. “One can use those, changing every three to four hours. And use thicker pads in case of heavy bleeding,” she advises.

Dr Bajaj concurs, saying that using more than one sanitary pad at a time to control the flow or prevent staining, could lead to infection in the vaginal area. “It is advisable to stick to one pad and if required, change it more often if the flow is greater. Cleaning the vagina properly after removing your pad and tampon is equally important to avoid any overgrowth of bacteria,” she says. “Note that you don’t require a specific soap or chemical-based product to wash your vagina; all you need to do is wash the outer part of it. If required, you can use mild soap,” she explains.

WHEN HYGIENE GETS NEGLECTED

Poor menstrual hygiene has been linked to reproductive and urinary tract infections and may even lead to pelvic inflammatory infection (PID) and other health risks.

“If menstrual hygiene is not maintained, a person can develop bacterial infections in the form of boils and other skin infections, or fungal infections. It may even lead to ascending infection, like a pelvic inflammatory infection or reproductive disorders because of the use of harmful chemicals in menstrual pads. Also, it may cause skin cancer,” warns Dr Rai.

If proper care is not taken, the infection can even spread upwards, resulting in the uterus and female genital tract, too, getting infected. “It can also cause blockage of tubes and difficulty in conceiving later in life,” adds Dr Usha Priyambada, senior consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Asian Hospital.

SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

Itching, redness, inflammation and discharge from the private parts are some symptoms that your menstrual hygiene is in poor shape. Other than these, one could also experience swelling in the area, foul smell, discharge with pain in lower abdomen, rashes and burning or pain while passing urine.

“If one experiences these, they should pay immediate attention to the problem and at once consult a doctor who might prescribe oral antibiotics, local ointment and treatment for specific infections,” Dr Priyambada advises. to four hours) even when the bleeding isn’t much. And use thicker pads in case of heavy bleeding.

While moderate exercise is advisable, do not push yourself too hard and take adequate rest as well.

Have a balanced diet with low carbohydrates and sugars, lots of liquids and fibre in the form of fruits, vegetables, salads and sprouts, and also milk and dairy products.

MOST MENSTRUATORS USE SANITARY NAPKINS AS A FIRST-CHOICE PRODUCT FOR AN AVERAGE OF 1,800 DAYS IN THEIR LIFETIME

Moderate exercise and yoga is advisable while on periods

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