In the 1700s, feminine hygiene predominantly involved the use of reusable cloths made from old clothing or baby nappies to manage menstruation.
Here's a more detailed look:
- Menstrual Rags: The most common method involved using rags, often made from old or worn-out clothing. These rags were folded and placed within the undergarments to absorb menstrual flow. For those who didn't have enough rags, alternatives were used.
- Nappies: Baby nappies were also utilized as menstrual cloths.
- Alternative Materials: Sheepskin lined with cotton was used by some women who may not have had access to sufficient cloth rags.
- Reusability and Cleaning: These cloths were typically washed and reused. Women would often boil them to ensure they were clean and hygienic for the next use.
The period of the 1700s predated the mass production of disposable sanitary products, so reusability and resourcefulness were key components of managing menstruation.
