Menstrual Health and Hygiene for Dyspraxic Women - Written by Chloe Mielek

When discussing dyspraxia, most resources focus on education and employment, often overlooking health and hygiene. Coordination difficulties like handwriting, cycling, or driving get some attention, but menstrual health is rarely addressed. Previously, The Dyspraxia Foundation provided valuable guidance on everyday health and hygiene, including menstruation. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, the charity closed, leaving a void in the dyspraxic community. This article aims to fill part of that gap by focusing on menstrual health and hygiene from the perspective of a dyspraxic woman. Although resources on this topic are limited, I hope this piece offers support and recognition to those in an underrepresented demographic.

Image by PatriciaMoraleda from Pixabay

Collection Methods

Blood is often the most inconvenient aspect of periods, particularly for those with dyspraxia. The sensation of blood can cause sensory issues, leaving individuals distracted or hyper-aware of their bodies. Finding the right menstrual product can be challenging, as different products require varying levels of fine and gross motor skills. Below is a list of popular collection methods with their pros and cons.

 Period Underwear:

Period underwear is easy to use, functioning like regular briefs, making it a simple, fuss-free collection method. However, they can be expensive upfront and often require special care, such as avoiding tumble drying. They may not provide sufficient protection for heavy periods, so many people, including myself, use them alongside other products.

Sanitary Towels:

Sanitary towels are straightforward, akin to placing a large sticker on your underwear. They come in various sizes and absorption levels, offering better protection for heavy flows compared to period underwear. However, the packaging and towels with wings can be tricky for those with fine motor coordination issues. Despite this, with practice, they become easier to use and are less costly upfront than period underwear. Reusable sanitary pads are also available, which are more sustainable and could save money long term.

Tampons: 

Tampons keep blood contained, minimising sensory issues associated with free-flowing blood. However, choosing the correct absorption level can be challenging—lighter tampons fill up quickly and may leak, while heavier ones can cause blockages, potentially extending your period. Inserting tampons requires fine motor skills, and not having a mirror can make this task more difficult. Applicator tampons can help, although some may still find them tricky. It's worth experimenting with different types to find the best fit for you.

Cups and Discs: 

Cups and discs are generally made from silicone and are safe to insert. A cup has a bell shape with a stem for easy removal, while a disc sits higher and lacks a stem. Both come in various sizes and function like a bowl, slowly filling up. They can be challenging to insert or remove, especially for those with dyspraxia, and there's a risk of spillage during removal. Proper cleaning is essential for health and hygiene; it’s crucial to follow the included guidance. They may be more costly than tampons initially, but are a sustainable alternative for those who can manage them.

Image by PatriciaMoraleda from Pixabay

Menstrual Hygiene

Menstruation can be a messy monthly affair. The sensation of warm, sticky blood can be a sensory nightmare, feeling unclean and disrupting usual toilet
 routines. While rinsing off in the bath or shower is an option at home, it's not feasible when out and about. The quickest and easiest way to stay clean on the go is to use sanitary wipes specifically tested for genital areas. Using other types of wipes, like facial cleansing wipes, can cause irritation. The same goes for soap in the bath or shower; only use soaps or washes tested for genital areas to avoid irritation.

Cleaning menstrual devices, especially reusable ones, is another consideration. Boiled water is ideal for sanitising most items, but always follow the care instructions on the packaging. Items like cups, discs, and reusable tampon applicators may require thorough cleaning. When out, sanitary wipes can serve as a temporary cleaning measure until you get home. Period underwear may need rinsing and wringing out before laundry, so check the packaging for instructions. Ensure you have fresh bedding at the start and end of your period and wash it in between if leakages occur. When using disposable products, be mindful of their materials. Do your research and check the packaging or the website to determine what it is made from. Many products are now made from 100% cotton, and some are even organic. These options can be more affordable than expected, making safe and hygienic choices more accessible. If a product is made from 100% cotton, this is usually indicated somewhere on the packaging as it is a selling point for several brands. It is crucial to dispose of sanitary products safely and correctly. Never flush them, always place them in the bin. To prevent others from coming into contact with your blood, you may want to use a sanitary bag or, if a bag is unavailable, wrap the product in tissue before disposal.

Image by Saranya7 from Pixabay

Period Pain and Mental Health

Many people experience varying degrees of pain during their periods. If you have extreme pain or pain that is abnormal for your cycle, consult a doctor to ensure there are no underlying causes. Conditions like PCOS or endometriosis can be linked to severe period pain or heavy bleeding, as can some forms of cancer. For typical period pain, doctors may recommend over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol, and contraceptive pills. Some people prefer natural remedies like teas, oils, sprays, and patches. CBD is increasingly popular for period pain relief, and CBD-infused tampons designed to reduce menstrual cramps are available. Some people find the use of hot water bottles and hot baths or showers soothes period pains. Whatever method you use to alleviate pain, it is always best to seek
 professional medical advice. The link between periods and mental health is not often discussed. People frequently joke about women being overly emotional during their cycle, which delegitimises their emotions. Throughout the cycle, hormones naturally fluctuate, causing significant variations in mood and energy levels.

Some people experience mild emotional fluctuations due to premenstrual syndrome, while others face severe changes due to premenstrual dysphoric disorder. People with pre-existing mental health conditions may experience premenstrual exacerbation, where their symptoms are magnified during the premenstrual phase. We must stop delegitimising women's emotions because of their periods and acknowledge the real impact hormones can have on mental health.

Image by F1 Digitals from Pixabay

For neurodivergent women, the combination of menstrual symptoms—such as blood, cramps, and hormonal fluctuations—can make certain tasks more difficult. They may get distracted more easily or find that their short-term memory isn’t as strong, leading to increased irritability. For dyspraxic women, this combination can make coordination issues more noticeable, as it may be harder to mask symptoms during their cycle. During these times, it is important to be patient with yourself and allow for leniency when things are tough. Simplify your daily tasks and prioritise rest. Even something as simple as buying pre-chopped vegetables can make a huge difference, as it not only frees up time to rest but also avoids the need for coordination skills when symptoms are exacerbated.

Cycle tracking can help you recognise and manage symptoms, especially if you suffer from menstrual pain or emotional dysregulation. I have tracked my cycle for almost three years, which has increased my awareness of my body's needs. By monitoring my cycle, I can identify when hormonal fluctuations heighten my emotions and trigger specific food cravings. This awareness allows me to plan activities when I have the most energy and prepare in advance for menstruation. Personally, I use a printed calendar aligned with the lunar cycle and colour-code the different phases of my period, alongside using an app. While period tracking apps are available, be mindful of how your data is managed and stored. Depending on your location, tracking your cycle offline may be safer.

When it comes to menstrual health and hygiene for dyspraxic women, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Choosing products, managing sensory difficulties, and coping with menstruation’s effects, require a personalised approach. Finding a method that suits your needs while maintaining hygiene and safety is essential. Menstrual cycles can significantly impact mental health, with hormonal changes often intensifying daily challenges for dyspraxic women. Tracking your cycle may help you adjust routines, empowering you to manage your health with confidence. The aim is to support dyspraxic women, addressing a gap left by the loss of a key organisation. I want to acknowledge the invaluable work of the Dyspraxia Foundation and express gratitude for their lasting impact on our community.