ance. She should be taught the reasons for
observing prudence during the menstrual period. The possible lifelong
invalidism that may result should be pointed out. A woman owes it to
herself to take good care of herself during her menstrual periods. For
two or three days at least she should avoid any unnecessary strain, lie
down and rest as much as possible and not worry over school or other
duties. Especial attention should be paid to cleanliness during this
period. A sponge bath taken in a warm room is not injurious and
unpleasant odors can be avoided by sponging the parts with a warm
antiseptic solution upon changing the cloth. Every woman should be
provided with a circular girdle cut upon the bias so it may be elastic,
and provided with tabs to which to pin the folded cloth. She also should
have a supply of sanitary cloths made of absorbent cotton-fabric, or
pads made of absorbent cotton enclosed in gauze. The latter especially
are convenient for the girl who is obliged to room away from home, for
they may be burned and the cost of new ones is no greater than the
laundry of cloths. These pads or cloths should be changed at least twice
a day. It also is necessary that one should bathe the parts in warm
water with each change, as unpleasant odors can thereby be avoided. At
the close of each period she should take a bath and change all clothing.
One cannot be too careful about these matters so essential to
cleanliness. It is surprising how many women neglect these important
matters. The erroneous idea that bathing of any sort at this time may
have disastrous results accounts for much of this neglect. If proper
care is taken warm sponge baths cannot be injurious.

A woman in normal health should not suffer at the menstrual period. She
normally will have a feeling of lassitude and disinclination for any
great mental or physical work, perhaps accompanied by a slight feeling
of uneasiness in the pelvic region. Because so many women do suffer at
these periods it often is considered as "natural" and allowed to
continue.

The phenomena often noted at the menstrual period are,--pains in various
parts of the body, hot flashes, chilliness and various hysterical
symptoms. A few days before menstruation commences there may be various
nervous symptoms, as irritability and a disinclination for any exertion.
Dark circles often appear under the eyes and the breasts become enlarged
and painful. A sense of fullness and oppression may be