Menstrual hygiene is a vital aspect of women’s health and well-being. It refers to the practices and products used to manage menstruation safely and with dignity. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, menstruation is still surrounded by stigma, misinformation, and poor access to proper hygiene products — all of which can lead to health problems, missed school or work, and emotional stress.
This article highlights the importance of menstrual hygiene, good practices, and how we can support better menstrual health for everyone.
Why Menstrual Hygiene Matters
1. Health: Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs), reproductive tract infections (RTIs), and skin irritations.
2. Education: Many girls miss school during their periods due to lack of sanitary products or clean facilities.
3. Dignity: Managing menstruation properly helps women and girls feel confident and respected, not ashamed.
4. Gender Equality: Talking openly about menstruation breaks taboos and empowers women to participate fully in society.
Good Menstrual Hygiene Practices
1. Using Clean Menstrual Products:
• Sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or reusable cloth pads should be clean and changed regularly (every 4–6 hours).
2. Proper Disposal:
• Dispose of used pads or tampons in bins — not in toilets or open spaces. Wrap them in paper before discarding.
• Reusable products should be washed thoroughly with clean water and dried in the sun if possible.
3. Washing Hands and Body:
• Always wash hands before and after changing menstrual products.
• Regular bathing with clean water keeps the body fresh and helps prevent infections.
4. Wearing Clean, Comfortable Underwear:
• Cotton underwear allows airflow and reduces the risk of rashes and infections.
Challenges in Menstrual Hygiene
– Lack of Education: Many girls don’t receive proper information about menstruation before their first period.
– Poor Access to Products: In some areas, pads or tampons are too expensive or unavailable.
– Inadequate Facilities: Lack of clean toilets, water, and privacy makes managing periods difficult, especially in schools and rural areas.
– Cultural Taboos: In some communities, girls are isolated, restricted from normal activities, or made to feel ashamed during their periods.
How to Support Menstrual Hygiene
– Educate Girls and Boys: Normalize conversations about menstruation from a young age.
– Provide Products and Facilities: Ensure schools and communities have access to affordable menstrual products and clean toilets.
– Break the Stigma: Challenge harmful beliefs and practices by speaking openly and respectfully about periods.
Conclusion
Menstrual hygiene is not just a women’s issue — it’s a public health, human rights, and social justice issue. By promoting good menstrual hygiene practices and breaking the silence around menstruation, we can create a world where every girl and woman can manage her period with confidence and dignity.
Menstruation is natural. Respect, support, and education go a long way in making a big difference.
