Menstrual Hygiene Day

Context: Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed on May 28th, highlights the critical importance of proper menstrual hygiene management. The health, happiness, and empowerment of women and girls all suffer as a result of improper management of menstrual hygiene.

Insufficient knowledge and poor hygiene during menstruation can result in various health issues. On this day, it is crucial to shed light on the consequences of improper menstrual hygiene management and its impact on women's health.

What is Mensuration?

• Menstruation is the process in which the uterus sheds blood and tissue through the vagina. This is a natural and healthy process for girls and women of reproductive age. In Western communities, this is often called “the period.” It typically lasts 2 to 5 days, but this varies by individual.
• Menstruation is a natural and normal process experienced by females, yet societal taboos, cultural beliefs, and limited access to resources often lead to inadequate practices.

Important consequences of improper menstrual hygiene management:

• Health Implications: Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to various infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infections.
  • Further, there is a correlation between poor menstrual hygiene and an increased risk of cervical cancer. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that inadequate menstrual hygiene management can contribute to the development of human papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer.
• Psychological Impact: Lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene products and facilities can cause significant stress, anxiety, and embarrassment among women and girls. A report by UNICEF reveals that the stigma and shame associated with menstruation can negatively affect mental health, leading to feelings of low self-esteem and social isolation.
• Social Consequences
  • Educational Disruption: Girls who lack access to menstrual hygiene products often miss school during their periods. UNESCO estimates that one in ten girls in Sub-Saharan Africa misses school during their menstrual cycle, which can accumulate to 20% of the school year. This absenteeism can hinder their academic performance and limit their future opportunities.
  • Poor menstrual health can significantly impact the sexual and reproductive health. It can lead to being pushed into child marriage, and facing a higher risk of domestic violence, malnourishment etc.
  • Workplace Challenges: Inadequate menstrual hygiene can also impact women's participation in the workforce. It is found that women in low-income settings often miss work during their periods due to a lack of access to proper sanitation facilities. This can affect their income and career advancement opportunities.
• Environmental Impact: Improper disposal of menstrual hygiene products, such as throwing them in open areas or water bodies, can lead to environmental pollution, affecting both human health and ecosystems.
• Economic Consequences: The health complications arising from poor menstrual hygiene can lead to increased healthcare costs for individuals and communities. Treating infections and diseases caused by inadequate hygiene can strain both personal finances and public health resources.
  • Loss of Productivity: The absenteeism from school and work due to menstrual hygiene issues results in a loss of productivity. According to a study by the International Labor Organization (ILO), this loss of productivity has broader economic implications, affecting the overall economic growth and development of a country.
• Human Rights Issues: Poor menstrual hygiene management is a significant barrier to achieving gender equality. Women and girls who lack access to menstrual hygiene products and facilities are often unable to participate fully in social, educational, and economic activities. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) emphasizes that menstrual hygiene is a critical aspect of women's rights and gender equality. Further, the stigma and discrimination associated with menstruation can lead to social exclusion and discrimination against women and girls. This can prevent them from accessing essential services and participating in community activities, further entrenching gender disparities.

Barriers to Menstrual Hygiene

• Socio-Cultural Barriers: Cultural taboos and societal stigma around menstruation can prevent open discussions and proper education on menstrual hygiene. Menstruating women and girls may face social exclusion and discriminatory practices, limiting their participation in daily activities.
• Educational Barriers: Inadequate education on menstrual health and hygiene leads to misconceptions and misinformation. Many girls miss school during their periods due to lack of proper facilities or support, affecting their education and future opportunities.
• Economic Barriers: High cost of sanitary products can be prohibitive, especially for low-income families. Further, Limited availability of affordable menstrual hygiene products in many regions.
• Infrastructure Barriers: Lack of clean and private toilets in schools and public places makes it difficult for women and girls to manage their periods. Also, Insufficient access to clean water for washing and maintaining hygiene.
• Health System Barriers: Poor access to healthcare services for menstrual-related issues and reproductive health. Shortage of healthcare providers trained in menstrual health education and management.
• Policy and Legal Barriers: Insufficient government policies and regulations to support menstrual health and hygiene. As was evident in the recent debate over proposals of menstrual leave, which clearly highlighted lack of consensus.

By addressing these barriers, we can improve menstrual hygiene management and support the overall well-being of women and girls.