A recent study conducted in India has revealed significant disparities in the usage of hygienic period products among young women aged 15 to 24. The study, based on data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), highlighted that only 76.15% of women reported exclusive use of hygienic period products during menstruation. The research explored various factors influencing this usage, including age, education, place of residence, wealth, access to media, and healthcare discussions.

The findings showed a notable difference in the adoption of hygienic period products between rural and urban areas, with rural regions reporting lower usage rates compared to urban areas. Factors such as education level, household wealth, and access to media played significant roles in determining the likelihood of using hygienic period products. Additionally, regional disparities were observed, with central districts exhibiting the lowest coverage and the Southern region reporting the highest.

The study emphasized the importance of comprehensive menstrual health education programs, access to affordable menstrual hygiene products, and infrastructure development initiatives to address the challenges faced by young women in India. By bridging the rural-urban gap and promoting awareness and access to menstrual hygiene products, policymakers can improve women’s health outcomes and advance gender equality in the country.