Gynaecologist advises women against using tissue paper for menstruation

Dr. Daniel Adegbulu, a Senior Registrar of Gynaecology and Obstetrics at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, has advised women against using tissue paper for menstruation, noting that it can cause severe infections.

Adegbulu explained that,  some tissue papers are made from waste papers, which makes them a grave health risk for any woman who may be using them as a substitute for sanitary pads.

The gynaecologist noted this at the 2022 Menstrual Hygiene Day. The day is to create awareness about menstruation, provide safe and hygienic practices to girls and eradicate persisting taboos and stigma.

The gynaecologist said, “The use of tissue paper as a sanitary pad could lead to severe health complications, as infections which pass through the vagina cavity can ascend to other parts of the genital tract.

“Some of these tissue papers are products of waste paper. If tissue paper must be used it should be as a make shift for 1 to 2 hours, before a proper sanitary pad is used and should never be inserted into the vagina.” 

He also warned against other unhygienic menstrual practices, stating that they are also means through which a woman can get infections.

Speaking further, he urged persons who may not have the finances to buy a sanitary pad to use materials that are hygienic and non-toxic.

Such materials should also be changed regularly and not allowed to cause skin irritation or bacterial infection.

He said, “The aim should be to stop the build up of bacteria and odour.

“This can be achieved by regular changing after use for about three to four hours. The use of pieces of clothes and towels is not unhygienic in itself but can cause infection if not properly used. 

“For example, if they are used for more than four hours, not properly washed and dried before being used again, they can cause infection.”

Temitope/Punch