How often Should You Shower on Your Period?
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How Often Should You Shower on Your Period?
Once? Twice? Every time you change your pad?
And what if you've already showered this morning, but by afternoon you're feeling a little sweaty or just want to freshen up?
Good news: you probably don't need another shower.
Your period doesn't make you dirty, and it doesn't automatically mean you need to shower more often.
But wanting to feel fresh? We get it.
Another shower or just a quick refresh?
Sometimes all you want is a quick refresh and clean underwear.
You can use a little lukewarm water to gently rinse your external intimate area (your vulva). A clean, soft cotton wipe dampened with water can also help you freshen up without taking another full shower.
No need to scrub. Just be gentle, and pat the area dry.
Prefer soap? A small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap on the outer skin may be fine if it doesn't irritate you. Plain water is often all you need, especially around sensitive areas.
And remember, the vagina cleans itself. Nothing needs to be washed inside.
We're talking about reusable cotton cloths with water, not scented or premoistened intimate wipes, which can irritate sensitive skin.
So yes, you can take a second shower if you feel like it. Just don't feel pressured to keep washing your intimate area throughout the day.
What else helps on period days?
Let's talk about the little things that can make a long day feel easier.
Thirsty? Get some water. 💧
Seriously, don't forget to drink. Have water when you're thirsty and with meals, and remember you may need more if you're active or it's hot outside.
Cramps making an appearance?
A warm shower or heating pad on your lower belly might help. Keep the heat comfortable, and don't fall asleep with an electric heating pad turned on.
Hungry? Eat.
You don't need a special period menu. Regular, nourishing meals are enough to start with. Foods containing iron, such as beans, lentils, and leafy greens, can be useful, especially if you have heavy periods.
Tired? Rest when you can.
Some period days are business as usual. Others call for comfortable clothes and a quiet evening. You can adjust your plans when possible.
And how often should you change your period products?
Here's something more important than squeezing in extra showers: don't leave the same pad on all day.
Change your menstrual pad every few hours, or sooner if your flow is heavy or it feels wet.
If you're using a menstrual cup or disc, follow the product's cleaning and wear instructions. Hume's cups and discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow, but you may need to empty them earlier.
And yes, clean hands matter before and after changing your products.
New to internal period care? We have simple guides for using a menstrual cup and using a menstrual disc.
One little reusable option you might not know about
Ever heard of an interlabial pad, or ILP?
It's a small absorbent cloth pad that sits externally around the labia. Some menstruantes use one for spotting, light flow, or as a little extra backup alongside another period product.
And they're not just for period days!
Some people like using an ILP as a light daily liner or an extra cotton layer, particularly with underwear made from synthetic fabrics or styles without a cotton gusset. It's an optional comfort choice, though not a substitute for a properly designed, breathable underwear gusset.
So, how do you wear one?
With Hume's ILPs, you can gently fold one between the labia or let it rest flat against the labial area, over a regular pad.
No deep tucking, no forcing it into place.
The soft cotton can gradually settle into a comfortable position as you move. With wear and washing, the fabric may also become softer and more flexible.
Here's something interesting: Over time, your ILP may develop a little spoon-like curve. That's the fabric naturally taking shape around your body's contours, which can make it feel even more comfortable.
Just remember, ILPs are loose and aren't attached to your underwear, so snug-fitting, comfortable underwear helps keep them in place. No need for anything uncomfortably tight!
The goal? You should feel comfortable, ideally barely noticing it's there.
If it feels bulky or irritating, try adjusting it or simply remove it.
One little warning before your next bathroom trip! 😅
Don't forget you're wearing an ILP!
Unlike a regular pad, an ILP isn't attached to your underwear with snaps or adhesive. It sits loosely in place.
So when you pull your underwear down to use the toilet, remember to remove or secure it first. Otherwise, it might fall right into the toilet bowl.
And trust us, nobody wants to go fishing for an ILP. 😂
At first, remembering this might take a little practice. But as you get used to wearing one, checking for it can become part of your bathroom routine.
Change your ILP whenever it becomes wet or soiled, and wash it between uses.
Curious? Take a look at our reusable interlabial pads or see how to use them.
So, do you need that second shower?
Maybe. Maybe not.
Sometimes it's a full shower. Sometimes it's a quick rinse with water, a fresh pad, and you're good to go.
A mild period scent can be normal, too. You don't need perfume or special intimate products to cover it up.
But if you notice a strong, unusual odor, itching, burning, severe cramps, or unusually heavy bleeding, don't just try washing more. Talk with a healthcare professional.
Your period routine doesn't need to be complicated. It just needs to work for you.
Still curious about reusable options? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
One period. More than one way.
A note from Hume's
We're a period-care brand, not medical professionals. This article shares general educational information and isn't a substitute for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you're experiencing unusual symptoms or have questions about your health, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Medical sources
- CDC — Healthy Habits: Menstrual Hygiene
- ACOG — Vulvovaginal Health
- NHS — Vulval Skincare
- NIH MedlinePlus — Period Pain
- NIH MedlinePlus — Water in Diet
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Iron
Hume's ILP placement and handling tips are product-use guidance based on the design of our products, not independent medical claims. is this our last version?