Addressing the Gaps in Global Menstrual Care
Global Challenges and Inequities in Menstrual Health and Hygiene.
Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by women, transgender men, and non-binary individuals of reproductive age. Despite its universality, managing menstrual health and hygiene remains fraught with challenges. Around the globe, stigma, harassment, and social exclusion create barriers for menstruators, deeply impacting their ability to care for themselves during their cycles.
For centuries, societal discomfort with menstrual blood has demanded secrecy, reinforcing taboos and stigmas that silence open conversations. As a result, many individuals face restrictions in education, work, and social participation. In numerous environments, menstruators feel isolated, unsupported, and vulnerable, leading to long-term effects on their mental health and well-being.
Stigma, Taboos, and Lack of Education
In many countries, stigma and misinformation dominate menstrual education. Conversations about menstruation are often avoided due to discomfort and cultural beliefs. This perpetuates myths and prejudices, leaving menstruators without proper guidance.
For example, in 25 countries, mothers are the primary source of menstrual education. However, the information shared can often be incomplete or inaccurate, leaving teenagers uninformed about managing their cycles. Many students skip school due to fear of leaks or stains, fearing judgment and teasing from peers. Even when present, many report being distracted and less engaged due to a lack of resources or privacy.
The stigma around menstruation also hinders access to menstrual products, leaving many individuals to use unhygienic materials such as old cloth, tissue, or even cotton and wool. These practices, common in resource-poor countries, increase the risk of infections and other health complications.
Menstrual Health as a Global Priority
Access to safe menstrual products is a fundamental human need. Every menstruator deserves clean materials, private facilities, and the ability to manage their cycle with dignity. Organizations like UNICEF emphasize that meeting these needs upholds human rights, dignity, and public health.
The United Nations recognizes menstrual health as a critical factor in achieving its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Menstrual health is directly tied to six of the 17 SDGs:
#3 Good Health and Well-Being
#4 Quality Education
#5 Gender Equality
#6 Clean Water and Sanitation
#8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
#12 Responsible Consumption and Production
Towards Equity and Sustainability
Menstrual health inequities highlight the urgent need for collective action. Key areas for improvement include:
Education: Comprehensive menstrual education for all genders to dismantle stigma and provide accurate information.
Access: Ensuring availability of safe and affordable menstrual products, particularly in underserved communities.
Facilities: Creating safe spaces with access to water, soap, and private areas for managing menstruation.
Policy: Governments must implement initiatives to eliminate period poverty, address taboos, and promote sustainable menstrual products.
The UN’s objectives aim to end period poverty, reduce stigma, and empower menstruators worldwide. Achieving these goals will ensure that all individuals can manage their cycles with dignity while advancing environmental sustainability.
Join the Conversation
By addressing global inequities in menstrual health, we can build a world where menstruation is understood, accepted, and managed equitably. Together, we can ensure every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity and confidence—one cycle at a time.
Bibliography
Owen, Lara. 2022. "Stigma, Sustainability, and Capitals: A Case Study on the Menstrual Cup." Gender, Work, and Organization 29(4): 1095-1112. https://doi.org/10.1111/gwao.12808.
Gharacheh, Maryam, et al. 2021. "Acceptability and Safety of the Menstrual Cups among Iranian Women: A Cross-Sectional Study." BMC Women's Health 21(105): 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-021-01259-8.
Kuhlmann, Anne Sebert, et al. 2017. "Menstrual Hygiene Management in Resource-Poor Countries." Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey 72(6): 356-376. https://doi.org/10.1097/OGX.0000000000000443.
Poirier, Phil, and Noha Habaieb. 2019. Guidance on Menstrual Health and Hygiene. UNICEF.
