Guide for female hygiene during trek to Everest

Trekking in the Everest Region is a dream adventure for everyone, but maintaining hygiene in the rugged terrain can be a topic of concern for female trekkers. Staying fresh and managing your menstrual cycle is an issue. However, it is possible with some tips and preparation. This blog will help you know about the essential hygiene tips and period care amid mountain adventures to ensure a safe and confident trekking experience.

What to pack for menstrual hygiene on your Everest Region Trek?

Preparing for your Everest Trek starts with packing. You need to bring the following hygiene essentials to maintain menstrual hygiene during your trek.

Sanitary Pads or Tampons

If you prefer sanitary pads or tampons, you must ensure you have enough for your entire trek. Pads and tampons can never be enough, so pack wisely! Make sure you have it all during your whole menstrual cycle.

Menstrual Cup

Menstrual cups are perfect for longer treks if you consider sustainable and space-saving options. However, it depends on whether you feel comfortable using the menstrual cup. They require fewer changes and can be cleaned with limited water.

Zip-Lock Bags

After every use, you should dispose of the pad/ tampon properly. The higher you go, the fewer facilities there are. So, if you prefer to store the sanitary products, you need zip-lock bags or polythene bags.

Wet Wipes

The water supply can be limited in high-altitude areas. Therefore, carrying biodegradable wet wipes for personal cleaning is necessary, especially when water is limited.

Intimate Wash

You should not forget a feminine wash. Carry a travel-sized, pH-balanced feminine wash to prevent irritation, itching, and infections.

How to manage your period during the Everest Trek?

Before starting your trek, you must be sure about your period date and understand that the trek can affect your cycle. You may bleed less or more than usual, or completely miss your period. The strenuous walk affects your menstrual cycle, but you must stay calm and patient. Having your period while trekking in the Everest region can be a little overwhelming, but it is entirely manageable with the right preparation. Here’s how you can manage your period and stay comfortable:

Change Frequently

You need to change your pads/ tampons or menstrual cup frequently to avoid discomfort. Even if you do not bleed a lot, you should replace it to prevent potential irritation. Wash yourself after every swap, and if you are using a menstrual cup, properly clean it with water. Note your timings and adjust accordingly!

Keep Things Clean

When water is scarce, use the wet wipes for cleaning and also the pH-balanced intimate wash to freshen up. Store the used sanitary products in the zip-lock bags until you reach a suitable disposable point.

Hydration and Nutrition

Trekking during your period can sometimes cause fatigue, so you need proper nutrition to help you stay energized. Keep yourself hydrated and ensure you are eating well!

Know Your Toilet Facilities

Not all teahouses may have modern flush toilets, so you must be prepared. You need to carry toilet paper and consider using a lightweight trekking poncho for extra privacy when changing or using a makeshift toilet facility.

How to maintain personal hygiene during the trek?

Maintaining personal hygiene during your Everest region trek can be crucial for your health, comfort, and overall trekking experience. With limited access to facilities, staying clean can be a challenge; however, with the proper preparation and practical hygiene practices, you can remain fresh, healthy, and confident throughout your journey.

Daily Cleaning Routine

You can use a small, travel-sized biodegradable soap to wash your face, hands, and body. When water is limited, you can use the biodegradable wet wipes for quick cleaning. You need to focus on key areas such as your face, underarms, and feet. 

Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible. If the toilet supply is scarce, you can also carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer before meals and after using the toilet.

Oral Hygiene

You should pack a travel toothbrush and biodegradable toothpaste and use purified water to brush your teeth to avoid stomach infections. You can also use a small mouthwash to maintain fresh breath.

Foot Care

Carry multiple moisture-wicking, breathable socks and change them daily to prevent any foot odor and infections. If you are prone to sweaty feet, you must carry an antifungal foot powder.

Hair Hygiene

Shower facilities are limited in the Everest region, so dry shampoo can be used to maintain a fresh scalp and reduce oil buildup. Hair should also be tied up to prevent it from becoming greasy or tangled. 

Laundry Management

You should carry moisture-wicking, breathable clothes that dries up quickly. This also reduces the need for frequent washing. Whenever possible, use the sunlight to dry washed clothes and prevent ordor.

Stay Fresh on the Trail

Carry a lightweight, quick-dry towel to wipe off sweat during a long day of trekking. You can also carry sugar-free mints or chewing gum for freshness during the trek.

Nighttime Hygiene Routine

It will be cold at night, but try to clean your face, hands, and feet before sleeping. This will also help you sleep comfortably and prevent skin issues. 

Clothing Hygiene Tips for your Everest region trek

You will need proper clothing hygiene to stay fresh, prevent infections, and ensure comfort during your Everest region trek. You must choose the right fabrics, follow regular laundry practices, and minimize odor buildup. 

Choose the Right Fabrics

You should opt for quick-dry, breathable fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials that dry quickly and wick away your sweat. You should pack light, but efficient layers. You should wear base layers to wick sweat, mid layers for insulation and a waterproof outer layer for protection against wind and rain.

Maintain Undergarment Hygiene

You should wear quick-dry, breathable undergarments and change them daily to prevent infections. Wear moisture-wicking sports bras because they will dry quickly and are comfortable for long treks.

Regular Laundry Practices

You can use a small amount of soap to wash your undergarments, soap, and base layers. In high altitudes of the Everest region, you will have to hand wash your clothes with minimal soap and rinse thoroughly. Spot cleaning areas like the armpits or collars to reduce odor without washing the entire garment.

Nighttime Hygiene Routine for Better Sleep

Setting a hygiene routine before bed is important during a trip to the Everest Region. Cold in the mountains can make it difficult to maintain good hygiene, but some effort helps a lot. Remove sweat and dirt from your face, hands, and feet, as these parts come into contact with the most. Feeling fresh by using water is not only good for your mind but also for your skin.

Putting on fresh, new, clean clothes for sleep is also vital. Go for clothes that draws moisture away from your body and allows your skin to feel fresh. Base layers made from merino wool or synthetics can be perfect. New sleepwear reduces the chance of bacteria and promotes a comfortable sleep. Be sure to pack some nice socks for the mountain nights, when it can get quite cold.

Find some simple activities that help calm your thoughts and prepare you for sleep. If your skin is dry, use a gentle lotion to help care for it during the cold mountain season. If a warm drink is available, sipping herbal tea can relax you after a hard day. Clean your sleeping bag and then spend some time getting your mind ready for tomorrow’s experience. Maintaining a hygiene routine before you sleep can make your day on the trails much more energized and pleasant.

Handling Emergencies Related to Hygiene

Despite careful planning, hygiene problems can still arise during your trek in the Everest Region. You may lack hygiene products when going on long journeys. In these instances, clean with water and a soft cloth instead. When water is limited, biodegradable wet wipes are a good alternative. Fold a piece of cloth into a pad if you run out of menstrual products during an emergency. Always save a few zip-lock bags to store used hygiene items until you can dispose of them properly.

Another problem you will often experience is skin irritation because of the harsh mountain climate. Remember to take a tube of antiseptic cream or a balm to treat cuts, rashes, or insect bites. If your skin begins to rub due to too much walking, make sure to apply an anti-chafing cream or a soothing aloe vera gel to that area. If you experience any severe allergic reactions or irritation, either have basic antihistamines on hand or seek medical attention close by.

Handling hygiene in an emergency is also about staying calm and using what you have. Dry off any wet clothes quickly, especially in the sun, to prevent fungal infections. If diarrhea results from the altitude or new foods, clean your hands often and remember to replenish your fluids with solution salts. A supply of first aid and hygiene items can help you manage most health issues safely.