Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Challenges for Women in Flood-Prone Bangladesh

Women and adolescent girls in flood-prone regions of Bangladesh face significant challenges in managing menstrual hygiene, impacting their health and well-being. A study conducted in districts like Noakhali, Feni, Barisal, Khulna, and Satkhira highlighted barriers such as lack of sanitation facilities, inadequate supplies of menstrual hygiene products, and socio-cultural taboos. These challenges are compounded during floods, where women resort to unhygienic alternatives like cloth, leaves, or newspapers due to the absence of proper facilities. Disaster management systems fail to address menstrual hygiene needs, leaving women vulnerable. Integrating gender-responsive disaster management policies and menstrual health education is crucial for addressing these gaps and promoting dignity for women and girls.

Natural disasters, including floods, are common in Bangladesh due to its geographical location. In 2024, heavy rains triggered devastating floods affecting millions, with significant impacts on women’s health. Women are more vulnerable during disasters, facing challenges in accessing basic needs like housing, clean water, and menstrual hygiene products. Lack of proper sanitation facilities and cultural barriers exacerbate the difficulties faced by women in managing menstruation, leading to health risks. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes ensuring access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and menstrual hygiene products.

Studies have shown that women in Bangladesh struggle with managing menstrual hygiene even in non-crisis periods due to the high cost of sanitary products and inadequate education. During floods, these challenges are magnified, with women resorting to using unhygienic materials like cloth. The lack of privacy and cultural taboos further hinder proper menstrual hygiene management. The environmental impact of poor menstrual hygiene practices during floods also poses long-term risks. Addressing these issues requires promoting awareness, providing access to sanitary products, and improving sanitation facilities, especially in flood-affected areas.

Efforts to address menstrual hygiene challenges during floods should focus on enhancing public awareness, incorporating MHM in disaster preparedness plans, designing gender-sensitive sanitation facilities, and promoting research on local MHM practices. By integrating MHM into national disaster management policies, providing post-flood support services, and promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene products, Bangladesh can improve the health and well-being of women and girls during emergencies. Community-based education programs and public-private partnerships can also play a crucial role in addressing menstrual hygiene challenges in flood-affected areas and promoting gender equity.

While this study provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by women and girls in managing menstrual hygiene during floods in Bangladesh, future research should explore MHM in diverse disaster contexts and incorporate mixed-method approaches for a more comprehensive understanding. By prioritizing menstrual hygiene management as a fundamental human right, Bangladesh can work towards ensuring the dignity, safety, and health of women and girls during emergencies and beyond.