Shreeya Ram, Grade 11

High School Finalist
El Dorado Hills, California

Beyond Taboos: Raising Awareness and Building Bridges for Menstrual Justice

Every month, women around the world experience a natural phenomenon known as their menstrual cycle. However, despite its universality, the issue of lack of access to menstrual products and the associated stigma remains a pressing challenge in today’s India. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, only 12% of girls and women had access to sanitary napkins. As a result, many women have to turn to unhygienic methods during menstruation even if it puts their own health and wellbeing at risk. The disparities among women for access to menstrual products exacerbate existing gender inequalities and hinder their educational and economic opportunities. 

I recall one day when I was visiting India and unexpectedly got my period and I found myself in the company of local women. As I mentioned my situation, I noticed a shift in their demeanor. The conversation quickly turned cryptic, as if menstruation itself was a taboo topic not meant to be openly discussed. A woman discreetly pulled out an old looking sanitary pad as if it was an illegal drug that wasn’t meant to be out in broad daylight. Their hushed voices and coded language brought to light how menstruation was surrounded by a pervasive silence. 

The lack of access to menstrual products in India has severe implications for women's health and overall development. According to an article by the guardian, poor menstrual hygiene is the cause for 70% of all reproductive diseases in India. Without proper sanitary products, women are forced to rely on alternatives like rags, leaves, or unhygienic materials, increasing the risk of infections and other health complications. This is particularly problematic for women living in slums, as they often face additional challenges such as a lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities. The combination of inadequate menstrual products and unsanitary conditions exacerbates the health risks faced by these women, perpetuating a cycle of poor reproductive health and hindering their overall well-being. It is evident that addressing the lack of access to menstrual products is not only essential for women's health but also for their empowerment and ability to fully participate in society. 

The lack of access to menstrual products in India turns something as natural as menstruation into a threat to women's livelihood. The absence of affordable and hygienic options forces women to resort to unhygienic alternatives, posing health risks and compromising their well-being. This issue is worsened by the fact that limited availability of menstrual products contributes to increased absenteeism from school and work. As a result, women's education and economic opportunities are hindered, perpetuating gender disparities and inhibiting their overall development. A 2019 report from the NGO Dasra found that nearly 23 million girls in India drop out of school every year solely due to poor hygiene facilities, lack of menstruation products, and inadequate information. Access to menstrual products is not just a matter of health but also a crucial factor in ensuring gender equality and empowering women to reach their full potential in all aspects of life. 

The stigma surrounding menstruation adds an additional layer of challenges for women in India. Menstruation is often considered a taboo subject, surrounded by myths, misconceptions, and cultural beliefs that perpetuate shame and silence. This stigma not only affects women's self-esteem but also hinders their participation in social activities and restricts their access to proper menstrual hygiene management. The exclusion and lack of awareness surrounding menstrual health and simply the female reproductive system in India has created roadblocks for the women throughout every aspect of their lives. According to a report from the United Nations Children Fund, 71% of girls in India are unaware of what menstruation even is until they actually get their first period. The limited knowledge about menstruation hampers women's ability to make informed choices regarding their menstrual hygiene practices. Many resort to unhygienic methods or inadequate resources, increasing the risk of infections and health complications. 

To address the lack of access to menstrual products for women in India, it is essential to break the silence and have open conversations about menstruation. The first step towards breaking the stigma is to initiate dialogue and education about menstruation. American individuals and groups can play a crucial role in fostering these conversations by promoting awareness, knowledge, and understanding. By facilitating discussions, organizing workshops, and engaging with communities, American individuals can help challenge the prevailing taboos and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. It is crucial to dispel myths and provide accurate information about menstrual health, hygiene practices, and the importance of using proper menstrual products. 

Education about menstrual health can also extend to addressing the social and cultural norms that contribute to the stigma. By highlighting the significance of menstrual health in overall well-being and gender equality, American individuals can advocate for a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in India. Additionally, providing platforms for women to share their experiences and stories can be empowering. By amplifying their voices, American individuals and groups can help destigmatize menstruation and create a safe space for women to discuss their needs, concerns, and challenges openly. Collaboration with local organizations, activists, and community leaders in India is crucial for the success of these initiatives. By working together and involving local stakeholders, the conversations can be culturally sensitive and tailored to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in different regions of India. While some may believe that the constrictions surrounding menstruation is a social problem, the issue of lack of resources takes root in government policy. Even as Americans living in a different continent, promotion, advocacy and fundraising can go a long way. By advocating for an increased allocation in the government budget for the distribution of sanitary products, we can increase regional access to this basic necessity. 

The lack of access to menstrual products and the stigma surrounding menstruation pose significant challenges for women in India. The disparities in access to menstrual resources and basic knowledge about the female body hinder women's health and education. American individuals and groups can be part of the solution by initiating conversations, promoting awareness, and advocating for policy reforms. We can work towards a future where every woman has access to safe and hygienic menstrual products and where menstruation is embraced as a natural and celebrated part of life.