Period hygiene is something that girls today are more aware of. This is because they have access to a lot of information from schools, doctors, social media and public health campaigns. People are now more open to talking about periods than they were a years ago. Knowing about period hygiene does not always mean that girls are doing things the right way. A lot of girls are still not sure how often they should change their sanitary pads or how to keep themselves clean. They also do not know which menstrual product is best for them.Educating Young Girls About Menstruation This is where parents can help. They should start teaching girls about menstruation before they get their period. This way girls will know that getting their period is not something to be scared of. Parents should tell girls to change their sanitary pads every hour even if they are not completely soaked. They should also teach girls to wash themselves with clean water. Using soaps or fragrances is not necessary and can be bad for the skin. When it is raining and the air is damp girls should keep themselves dry by patting themselves after washing. Wearing cotton underwear that can absorb moisture is also a good idea. This can help prevent infections.Parents should also talk to girls about how to use menstrual products safely. Whether a girl uses sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups or period underwear she should know how to use them clean them and replace them correctly. If girls do not use these products the way they can get infections or feel uncomfortable.Also read: Bryan Johnson's New 2.6M Women's Health Project Centers on Girlfriend's Menstrual BloodMenstrual Products There are different menstrual products available today. This is a thing because girls can choose the products that are best for them. Having so many options can also be confusing especially for teenagers. Instead of saying that one product is better than another we should focus on making sure girls have all the information they need to make good choices. All menstrual products are safe if used correctly. Girls should feel like they can try products ask for help when they need it and choose the products that make them feel good, about themselves.By Dr Nishita Shah, Gynaecologist, Saifee Hospital