Study Reveals Preferences for Reusable Sanitary Products Among Women

A study conducted on the development and validation of a survey instrument for reusable sanitary products aimed to promote sustainable menstrual hygiene practices. The research focused on the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products and the need for exploring sustainable options like reusable sanitary pads (RSPs). Despite the benefits of RSPs, their adoption is limited by factors such as awareness, availability, cost, and research gaps in the literature.

The study used a convenient sampling method, collecting data through a structured offline survey from 446 South Asian women of reproductive age. The survey instrument consisted of 15 items measuring factors like comfort, hygiene, convenience, and environmental consciousness related to RSPs. The reliability and validity of the instrument were rigorously assessed using reliability and factor analysis to ensure its effectiveness in capturing the multifaceted dimensions of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) product choices.

The findings of the study revealed that the majority of women preferred RSPs that were comfortable, accessible, and easy to use and dispose of. The research emphasized the importance of developing a validated tool for manufacturers, policymakers, and researchers to evaluate reusable pads, promoting their broader acceptance and adoption for sustainable and equitable menstrual hygiene practices.

The article also discussed the historical context and challenges faced by women in rural and low-income settings regarding menstrual hygiene management. It highlighted the environmental impact, economic barriers, and health risks associated with traditional menstrual products. The shift towards sustainable menstrual products like RSPs was identified as a promising solution to address these challenges.

Expert commentary and industry relevance were provided through discussions on the social and cultural norms influencing the acceptability and usage of menstrual products. The article also delved into the lack of validated research instruments for assessing reusable products, hindering the proliferation of sustainable options. Recommendations were made for enhanced educational efforts, policy reforms, and the integration of poverty alleviation and environmental protection efforts in menstrual health management.

The study’s implications for practitioners and stakeholders were outlined, emphasizing the importance of developing interventions based on user attitudes and preferences towards RSPs. Future research directions were suggested, including the need for longitudinal studies, comparative analyses with other menstrual hygiene products, and investigations into technological innovations for RSPs to enhance user comfort and hygiene. The article concluded by underlining the significance of the study in advancing menstrual hygiene practices, public health outcomes, and environmental conservation efforts.