Menstrual Hygiene Management - Awareness and Sustainable options with special reference to Kirti College, Mumbai

Abstract

Menstruation is the vaginal bleeding that occurs when the lining of uterus sheds. Adolescent girls and women face many physical and psychological and social issues in life with respect to menstruation. Inadequate Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) can lead to a range of health problems, including urinary tract infections, reproductive tract infections and menstrual-related disorders. Furthermore, societal stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation can perpetuate shame, embarrassment and low self-esteem among women and girls. This research explores the barriers, practices and perceptions surrounding MHM, focusing on the role of education, infrastructure and cultural norms. This study highlights the need for integrated interventions, including the provision of affordable menstrual products, such as sanitary pads, menstrual cup, awareness about dysmenorrhea and educational programs targeting both genders. Menstrual hygiene and Primary dysmenorrhea are interconnected issues that significantly affect the health, education and productivity of menstruating individuals. Dysmenorrhea characterised by crampy pain in abdomen, lower back along with other associated symptoms which differ widely. Earlier studies have clearly shown prevalence of Primary dysmenorrhea which varies widely from 16.8 to 81 % worldwide.