Menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) is a crucial aspect of adolescent girls' well-being, yet it remains a neglected issue in many parts of India. For young girls, particularly those in school, managing menstruation can be challenging due to a lack of awareness, resources, and support. Rachyita Foundation is committed to addressing these challenges by creating awareness and improving
and Hygiene in menstrual health and hygiene Schools
The Importance of Menstrual Health and Hygiene in Schools
The Importance of Menstrual Health and Hygiene in Menstrual health and hygiene are vital for the overall health, education, and empowerment of girls. When girls have access to accurate information, proper sanitary products, and a supportive environment, they are better equipped to manage their periods with dignity and confidence. Unfortunately, in many Indian schools, MHH is still shrouded in stigma, misinformation, and inadequate facilities, leading to negative impacts on girls' education and well-being. Schools
WHY MHH Matters in School
Improved Attendance:
Effective MHM can significantly reduce absenteeism among schoolgirls. By providing the necessary resources and education, girls are more likely to attend school during their menstrual periods, ensuring continuity in their education.
Reduced Stigma:
Raising awareness about menstrual hygiene fosters a supportive environment. When schools promote open discussions about menstruation, it helps dismantle the stigma and taboos, allowing girls to manage their periods without fear or shame.
Better Health Outcomes:
Proper menstrual hygiene practices reduce the risk of infections and other health issues. Educating girls about MHH helps them understand how to take care of their bodies during menstruation.
Why Menstrual Health and
Hygiene Matters?
Physical Health
Mental Health
Education & Productivity
Social Inclusion
Economic Empowerment
Environmental Sustainability
1.Physical Health
⬤Reduces health risks
Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs).
⬤Prevents discomfort
Proper hygiene can alleviate menstrual symptoms like cramps, bloating, and skin irritation.
2. Mental Health
⬤Boosts confidence
Feeling clean and comfortable during menstruation can positively impact self-esteem and body image.
⬤Reduces stress
Access to menstrual products and facilities can alleviate anxiety and stress associated with
menstruation.
3.Education and Productivity
⬤Improves attendance
When girls have access to menstrual products and facilities, they are less likely to miss school due to period- related issues.
⬤Enhances academic performance
positive menstrual experience can contribute to better concentration and focus in the classroom.
4.Social Inclusion
⬤Challenges stigma
Promoting menstrual health and hygiene can help break down taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation.
⬤Fosters equality
Ensuring access to menstrual products and facilities promotes gender equality and inclusivity.
5.Economic Empowerment
⬤Enables participation
Good menstrual health and hygiene can empower women and girls to participate fully in education and the workforce.
⬤Reduces economic burden
Access to affordable menstrual products can alleviate financial burdens for women and families.
6. Environmental Sustainability
⬤Promotes sustainable
practices
Using reusable or biodegradable menstrual products can reduce waste and environmental impact.
⬤Supports local economies
Investing in menstrual health and hygiene can create jobs and support local businesses.
The Reality of Menstrual Management in Schools
How Indian Schoolgirls Manage Their Periods
Managing menstruation can be a daunting task for many schoolgirls in India, especially in rural and underprivileged areas. The lack of access to sanitary products, clean toilets, and proper education on menstruation exacerbates the challenges they face.
Data reveals some startling statistics about how Indian school girls manage their periods:
ABSENTEEISM
A report by Dasra and the Bank of America showed that
approximately 23 million girls in India drop out of school annually due to a lack of proper menstrual hygiene management facilities. This number reflects the
significant impact of menstruation on girls' education.
ACCESS TO SANITARY PRODUCTS
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), only 57.6% of young women aged 15-24 years use hygienic
methods of protection during
menstruation. The rest rely on unsafe and unhygienic materials, which can lead to infections and discomfort.
INADEQUATE FACILITIES
Many schools in India lack basic facilities such as clean toilets, running water, and disposal mechanisms for sanitary products. This lack of infrastructure makes it difficult for girls to manage their periods at school.
KNOWLEDGE GAP
A study conducted by WaterAid India found that 71% of girls in India do not know about menstruation before their first period. This lack of awareness leads to 10:35 pm confusion, and embarrassment when menstruation
begins.
Rachyita Foundation's
Efforts in MHH Awareness
Rachyita Foundation recognizes the urgent need to address menstrual health and hygiene in schools. Our initiatives focus on creating awareness, providing resources, and improving facilities to ensure girls can manage their periods with dignity and confidence.
EDUCATION AND
AWARENESS PROGRAMS
We conduct comprehensive MHH awareness programs in schools, where girls are educated about menstruation, hygiene practices, and the importance of using sanitary products. These programs also aim to break the silence around menstruation by encouraging open discussions and normalizing conversations about periods.
PROVIDING SANITARY PRODUCTS
Rachyita Foundation ensures girls have access to affordable and
hygienic sanitary
products. Our distribution programs provide sanitary pads to schoolgirls, helping them manage their periods more comfortably and safely.
IMPROVING SCHOOL FACILITIES
A study conducted by WaterAid India found that 71% of girls in India do not know about menstruation before their first period. This lack of awareness leads to fear, confusion, and embarrassment when menstruation begins.
RachyitChildren who drop out of school during period days
India: Studies estimate that 23 million girls drop out of school each year in India due to a lack of menstrual hygiene management facilities. This represents a substantial portion of the female student population.
Global: While specific figures vary by region, it's widely recognized that lack of access to menstrual products and proper hygiene can lead to absenteeism and ultimately, school dropout.
No More Absences Menstrual Hygiene is a Right, Not a Privilege!
Creating awareness about menstrual health and hygiene in schools is essential for the health, education, and empowerment of young girls in India. Rachyita Foundation is dedicated to breaking the barriers of stigma, providing resources, and improving facilities to ensure that every girl can manage her periods with confidence and dignity. By addressing the challenges of menstrual hygiene management, we are helping to build a brighter future for India's girls, one where they can pursue their education and dreams without hindrance.
Components of Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) Capacity Development in Schools
