Did you know? Globally, 1 in 10 girls lack access to safe and affordable menstrual products. This leads to a cascade of issues, impacting education, health, and overall well-being.
This World Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s break the silence! Periods are a natural part of life for half the population, yet stigma and lack of access to proper hygiene remain a harsh reality.
By creating a #PeriodFriendlyWorld, we can empower everyone to manage their periods with dignity. Imagine a world where girls don’t miss school because of their period, where period poverty doesn’t exist, and where open conversations about menstruation are the norm.
Let’s work together to break down barriers, raise awareness, and ensure everyone has the resources they need for healthy and happy periods.
5 important facts about menstrual hygiene
- Refresh menstrual products every 4-6 hours: It’s crucial to change your menstrual products (such as pads, tampons, or menstrual cups) every 4-6 hours to prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infection.
- Monitor your menstrual health: Schedule regular gynaecological check-ups to monitor menstrual health, address any concerns, and receive guidance on maintaining hygiene. You can monitor your cycles predict ovulation, and track symptoms through period tracking apps. These apps empower individuals to better understand their bodies and plan accordingly.
- Pick your perfect fit: Select menstrual products that suit your body and lifestyle. Ensure they are comfortable, absorbent, and made from safe materials to minimise the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
- Be the hygiene queen: Keep your genital area clean by washing with water, especially during your period. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scented products, as they can disrupt the natural pH balance and cause irritation.
- Wrap and bin, keep it clean: Dispose of used menstrual products properly. Wrap them in toilet paper or use disposal bags before throwing them in a designated bin. Avoid flushing sanitary products down the toilet, as they can cause blockages in the plumbing system.
Revolutionising period products
Though sanitary pads are the traditional and more common menstrual product in Bangladesh, there have been many new inventions targetted to make periods more comfortable. Some of the inventions are:
- Menstrual cups: Menstrual cups are reusable silicone or rubber cups worn internally to collect menstrual blood. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and can be worn for up to 12 hours.
- Period panties: Period panties are underwear specially designed to absorb menstrual blood. They often feature multiple layers of absorbent fabric and a waterproof lining, offering a leak-proof and comfortable alternative to pads or tampons.
- Reusable cloth pads: Cloth pads are washable and reusable menstrual pads made from absorbent fabric such as cotton or bamboo. They are eco-friendly, economical, and come in various sizes and designs.
- Biodegradable pads and tampons: Some companies produce biodegradable menstrual pads and tampons made from organic materials such as bamboo or cotton. These products break down naturally after disposal, reducing environmental impact.