Menstrual health and hygiene are essential for physical, mental, and social well-being. However, menstruation is still surrounded by stigma, misconceptions, and limited access to safe menstrual products in many communities. Addressing menstrual health is not just about dignity and self-care; it is also an important public health issue. Recognizing menstruation as a normal and important part of health is essential, as it directly affects daily life, participation, and overall well-being.
Bad habits when it comes to hygiene, like not changing products often enough, using things that are not safe, and not having access to clean water and a clean place to go to the bathroom, can make it more likely that women get infections, skin irritation, and discomfort. Menstrual hygiene problems can make existing problems with women’s health worse. Make daily life less comfortable and less productive for women who have menstrual hygiene issues. Women who have hygiene issues can experience a lot of discomfort and health problems.
Menstruation is something that people should know about. Understanding the cycle is important because it helps people figure out if something is wrong, like if they are bleeding too much, having really bad cramps, or if their periods are not coming when they should. These things can be signs of problems like anemia, hormonal issues, PCOS, or thyroid problems. If people know about menstruation, they can go to the doctor sooner instead of just dealing with the pain and thinking it is normal. Menstruation education is key to getting medical help when people need it, and it can make a big difference in how they feel about their menstrual cycle and their overall health. People should learn about menstruation so they can take care of themselves and get help if they need it. That is why awareness of menstruation is just as crucial.
Lack of access to affordable menstrual supplies, sanitary restrooms, proper disposal methods, and pain relief, particularly in under-resourced areas, can result in missing school or work and lowered self-esteem. Advancing menstrual health requires coordinated efforts focused on education and awareness, accessible healthcare services, availability of affordable menstrual products, adequate water, sanitation, and disposal infrastructure, and community-based initiatives to reduce stigma, all aimed at normalizing discussions and promoting equity.
Normalizing menstruation and ensuring access to products and care are essential for public health.
Do we talk openly about menstrual health the way we talk about other health issues?
MBH/AB