In India, ensuring proper menstrual hygiene management remains a significant challenge for young women. The exclusive use of hygienic period products is crucial to prevent health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene practices. Factors such as age, education, place of residence, wealth, access to media, and healthcare discussions play a significant role in determining the exclusive use of period products among women aged 15-24. Rural areas exhibit lower utilization rates compared to urban areas, with disparities observed across different regions in India.
Historically, menstruation has been a natural process in the female body, but societal stigma and lack of awareness have led to challenges in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene. Research shows that over 50% of girls in low- and middle-income countries do not adhere to adequate menstrual hygiene practices. Geospatial analyses and data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) highlight the regional disparities and inequalities in menstrual hygiene practices among young women in India.
Government initiatives like the Rashtriya Kishore Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme have been introduced to address menstrual hygiene challenges. These programs aim to raise awareness, provide access to affordable menstrual products, and promote education on menstrual health. Despite these efforts, there is still a need for targeted interventions to bridge the rural-urban gap and ensure comprehensive menstrual hygiene management.
The study emphasizes the importance of education, access to resources, and socio-cultural empowerment in addressing menstrual hygiene challenges in India. Integrating menstrual health education into school curricula, expanding government schemes, and improving infrastructure for sanitation facilities are essential steps to promote positive menstrual health outcomes. Community engagement and participation are also crucial for the success of menstrual hygiene initiatives, ensuring that programs are tailored to the specific needs of different regions and communities.
Overall, addressing menstrual hygiene management in India requires a holistic approach that combines education, access to resources, infrastructure development, and community engagement. By implementing targeted interventions and raising awareness, policymakers can empower women, promote gender equality,
