Introduction: The World Health Organization warns of increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive tract infections, the risk of which increases during menstruation. Lack of knowledge of menstruation itself and of anogenital care during it poses a great problem in the underdeveloped countries of the world. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma thesis is to present the importance of anogenital care during menstruation and its importance for preventing infections. Work methods: A descriptive work method was used in making this diploma thesis. A systematic review of literature published in the Slovenian and English language was carried out. Literature was searched in the CINAHL, Medline (PubMed), Google Scholar and Science Direct databases. The search criteria were: year of publication (2006-2017), accessibility, and relevant content. Discussion and conclusions: With menarche menstruation becomes a part of women’s lives until menopause. Society can view menstruation either positively or negatively. Hygiene during menstruation is a problem encountered in the lives of all girls and women. Good hygiene during menstruation is of key importance for the health and dignity of girls and women. In recent times, reproductive system diseases are becoming a global problem and are affecting women’s quality of life. The reason for poor menstrual hygiene is insufficient and unsuitable knowledge, while in underdeveloped parts of the world there is also the lack of attention devoted to said problem. Poor knowledge of menstruation and hygiene is the main cause of reproductive tract infections. In order to maintain intimate health, it is important that women wear undergarments made from natural materials, change undergarments at least every 24 hours, wash the anogenital region, use intimate wash, wipe from the pubic symphysis towards the anus, dry the anogenital region, and wear dry clothes and underwear. Nurses must be aware of the importance of personal hygiene, which includes anogenital care. As medical educators, nurses must pass that knowledge on to patients and raise their awareness (especially women’s) of the importance of proper anogenital care.
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