Menstrual Hygiene Day: Only 16% of Indian rural women have access to sanitary pads

Hyderabad: Poor menstrual health can directly affect reproductive health, increase the risk of infections, and impact psychological and social well-being. The awareness of menstrual health is low in rural India, even as reports suggest 355 million women die due to a lack of menstrual health awareness and education.

Social stigma and a lack of open discussion on menstrual health remain a challenge across the country.

Women in urban areas are relatively healthier

As per the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS), women with better education, wealth and residing in urban areas have better menstrual health and hygiene (MHH).

With the aim of creating awareness, ending the social stigma and ensuring a healthy menstruation, the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed on May 28, has selected the theme, ‘Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld’.

Importance of ensuring menstrual health

Menstrual health is considered highly important as it addresses practical, social and cultural barriers that prevent women and girls from living with dignity.

Dr Padmavathi Kapila, chief consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Renova Hospitals, Hyderabad said, “Proper menstrual hygiene is crucial for health, well-being, dignity of girls and women. Menstrual health is essential for preventing infections, promoting personal comfort, reducing stress for schoolgirls, reducing myths and stigma, building self-confidence and promoting overall reproductive health.”

The lack of awareness among women, particularly in rural areas, is affecting their menstrual hygiene, leading to long-term impacts. Besides, as per a report of the World Health Organisation (WHO), only 16 per cent of the rural women have access to sanitary napkins and other products.

Need for frequent change of sanitary products

While a large section of the rural poor, including schoolchildren, are yet to get access to sanitary products, a section which uses such products lacks basic awareness of the duration of using the products.

“Experts recommend changing pads every 4-6 hours, even if you are on light flow, which helps to prevent bacterial multiplication, abnormal odour and skin rashes. If the flow is heavy, you may need to change it more frequently to reduce discomfort. Tampons and menstruation cups may need changing more frequently,” Dr Padmavathi said.

Not changing sanitary products can increase risks of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTI).

Symptoms of abnormal periods

Some menstruating women can suffer from abnormal periods and may experience symptoms during specific days, impeding their routine.

According to Dr Padmavathi, the common symptoms include irregular bleeding, heavy and prolonged periods, light and scanty periods, menstrual bleeding and spotting.

“Other symptoms are severe abdominal cramps, mood change, hormonal imbalance like acne, weight gain, excessive hair growth or hair loss. The irregular periods can also affect fertility,” she said.

Mental health issues and lifestyle changes

Most women face mental health issues during their periods.

Dr Padmavati said, “Common issues faced are mood swings, irritability, anxiety, bloating, breast tenderness, lack of attention and focus, sleep disturbances, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).”

Experts recommend lifestyle changes for better menstrual health that include regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and reducing alcohol and caffeine intake.

“There should be more focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains while limiting processed foods, salt and sugars,” Dr Padmavati added.

Including Omega 3 fatty acids, increasing calcium intake and practising yoga are suggested by experts to ensure better menstrual health.