Period poverty and the myths surrounding menstruation persist as significant challenges in Sri Lanka, especially impacting women and girls in rural and estate communities. The Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Embassy of France, initiated the Collective Action Against Period Poverty (CAAP) project. This project aims to enhance menstrual hygiene education, raise awareness, and address the lack of proper water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, particularly in schools.
During the launch event at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the importance of ensuring that menstruation does not impede anyone’s health, education, or dignity. The study conducted in Trincomalee, Kandy, and Colombo revealed alarming realities: girls missing school due to inadequate menstrual products, women resorting to unsafe alternatives, and the perpetuation of stigma and silence. Dr. Amarasuriya called for urgent and decisive actions to tackle these issues.
The Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Rémi Lambért, highlighted gender equality as a key focus area in their cooperation with Sri Lanka. The CAAP project aims to provide sustainable solutions that positively impact the lives of women and girls. Dr. Ruchitha Perera, the Executive Director of the FPA, emphasized the significance of this collaborative effort in addressing menstrual hygiene and period poverty, particularly in vulnerable populations across multiple provinces.
A study conducted in plantation communities of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya underscored the challenges faced by the estate sector, including poor living conditions and inadequate sanitation facilities. Many women lacked knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene practices, leading to issues like absenteeism from schools and workplaces. Unsafe disposal practices, limited access to washing facilities, and the perpetuation of cultural taboos further exacerbated the risks of infections and environmental harm.
Socio-cultural norms and traditional beliefs significantly impact the daily lives of women and girls, affecting their education and self-esteem. Participants shared experiences of restrictions and stigma during menstruation, rooted in cultural taboos. These restrictions extended to activities like entering prayer rooms, attending assemblies, and interacting with male family members. Despite these challenges, participants continued to engage in demanding tasks like tea leaf plucking during menstruation.
Challenges in schools were also evident, with some teachers reinforcing incorrect practices and contributing to the shame and restrictions faced by female students. The study highlighted the need for comprehensive education on menstrual health and hygiene, improved sanitation facilities, and the dispelling of myths and taboos surrounding menstruation. Efforts to address period poverty and promote menstrual hygiene are crucial for the well-being and empowerment of women and girls in Sri Lanka.
In conclusion, collaborative initiatives like the CAAP project play a vital role in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and implementing practical solutions to combat period poverty and improve female hygiene practices in Sri Lanka.
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