How to Perform Ghusl After Menstruation

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: July 18, 2022 Approved

In Islam, ghusl is a major ablution, or washing, that must be performed after certain circumstances, such as after your menstrual cycle ends. Once you get in the habit, this will come naturally to you. If you are short on time, you can do what is known as “obligatory ghusl”, which only includes the essential steps. However, you may prefer to set time aside to perform a complete ghusl. Whichever you choose, there are simple steps to take once you’re in the shower. Just make sure to make an intention to become pure before beginning ghusl.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Completing Obligatory Ghusl

1
Remove all jewelry and cosmetics. In ghusl, the water must touch every part of your body. Take care to remove anything that touches your skin so that there is no barrier between you and the water. Wipe off any nail polish or makeup so that the water can hit your nails and face.^{[1]
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- Place any jewelry in a safe spot while you shower.
2
Set your intention to purify. In order to begin the ritual of ghusl, make it clear in your heart and mind that your intention is to become pure. There’s no need to speak out loud. You can think, “Allow this ghusl to make me pure.”^{[2]
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3
Run the water and get into the shower. Turn your shower on and allow the water to reach a temperature that is comfortable for you. Remove all of your clothing and jewelry and step into the shower.^{[3]
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- It’s preferable to use clean, running water for ghusl. If you don’t live somewhere where clean water is available, you may use other water.
- You can cleanse yourself as usual before performing ghusl. Use shampoo and soap as normal, and then move onto ghusl.
4
Rinse your nose and mouth. Once you are in the shower, tilt your head back and allow a little bit of water to go into your mouth. Swish the water around and then spit it out. You can rinse your nose by tilting your head back and allowing a little bit of water to enter your nose.^{[4]
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5
Allow the water to run over your entire body at least once. After rinsing your mouth and nose, allow the water to flow over the rest of your body. If you are in a hurry, it is fine to do this only once. Just make sure to turn your body so that the water hits the front, back, and both sides of your body.^{[5]
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- If you have a little extra time, you can do this 3 times, which is the recommended time for a complete ghusl.
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Make sure that the water reaches every part of your body. Purification won’t happen if every part of your body isn’t touched by water. This includes your scalp! It’s not enough to simply wet your hair. Make sure to move your hair around so that the water actually touches your scalp.^{[6]
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- If you wear your hair in braids, it’s not necessary to undo them. You should still be able to hit your scalp with the water.
- When you're finished, step out of the shower and dry yourself with a clean towel.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Doing Complete Ghusl with Sunnah Acts

1
Begin by making your intention to purify. It is essential that you create an intention in your heart. Before you begin ghusl, acknowledge that you are performing ghusl to become pure. You don’t need to speak out loud.^{[7]
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- You might think to yourself, “I am performing ghusl to become pure.”
2
Remove your clothes and get in the shower. Turn the shower on to a comfortable temperature. Take off all of your clothes, jewelry, and cosmetics and then step under the water. It is preferable to perform ghusl under clean, running water.
- You can use other water if you don’t have access to clean water.
3
Say bismillah and wash your hands 3 times. Out loud, say “bismillah”, which means “in the name of Allah.” Start by washing your right hand up to the wrist. Repeat this 3 times, making sure to rub the spaces between your fingers. You can then move on to your left hand, washing that 3 times, too.^{[8]
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4
Use your left hand to wash your private parts. Pat or rub all parts of your body with water. Take care to wash all areas of your body, particularly your vulva, after menstruation. Make sure the water touches each part.^{[9]
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5
Use musk or perfume to ward off odors. Women have traditionally used musk after menstruation to rid themselves of lingering odors. You can pour a small amount of musk oil into your palm and rub it on your vulva.^{[10]
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- If musk isn’t available, you can use any type of perfume that you have.
- Don't put musk or perfume in your vagina. It could cause irritation.
6
Pour water over your head 3 times, making sure to reach your scalp. Cup your hands to collect some water and then let it fall over your head. Move your hair as necessary so that the water touches your scalp.^{[11]
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- Some people prefer to pour water over one side of your head, then the other, then over the center.
7
Use your hands to wash your entire body. You can use both hands to ensure that water reaches every body part. For example, use your hands to pat water in your armpits and on your ankles.^{[12]
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- Step out of the shower and dry yourself off with a clean towel when you've completed ghusl.