2024-07-28 02:50:07
In several countries, the lack of access to hygiene services for women during their menstrual periods contributes to increasing gender inequalities, according to a study published in the Journal of Psychosexual Health.
The study was conducted at a women’s general college in Kolkata, India, with 800 participants. The research was carried out over three months, from August to October 2022.
The participants filled out a questionnaire, and 30 of them shared their concerns. The average age of the women was 19 years.
A meta-analysis on the state of menstrual hygiene among adolescents in India revealed that a quarter of girls did not attend school during their period due to a lack of adequate toilets.
In South Sudan, the percentage of school absenteeism was 57% during their period.
A survey conducted in Bangladesh found that only 6% of schools offer education on sexual health and hygiene. Only 36% of girls had knowledge about menstruation before their first period.
Future Trends in Menstrual Hygiene Access and Gender Equality
The disparities in access to menstrual hygiene services continue to exacerbate gender inequalities across the globe. As highlighted by recent studies, including one conducted in a women’s college in Kolkata, India, the lack of proper facilities can lead to significant absenteeism among students during their menstrual cycles. This issue is not isolated, with staggering statistics showing that 57% of girls in South Sudan and a significant number in Bangladesh miss school due to inadequate menstrual hygiene management.
Going forward, awareness and investment in menstrual health education are expected to gain momentum. More schools are likely to implement comprehensive health curricula that address menstruation, educating young women about their bodies and promoting a stigma-free environment. There is a growing understanding that education plays a crucial role in empowering girls, and schools that provide access to menstrual hygiene products and education will likely see improved attendance rates and academic performance among female students.
Additionally, global advocacy for improved sanitation facilities in schools is anticipated to rise. NGOs and governments are expected to collaborate to create sustainable solutions that ensure girls have access to clean and private toilets. The integration of menstrual hygiene management into broader public health and educational initiatives will be critical in bridging the gender gap in education.
Social enterprises focused on affordable menstrual products are also likely to thrive, as more women advocate for sustainable and accessible options. With increased awareness of these issues, it is expected that innovative products, including eco-friendly alternatives, will emerge, aiming to meet the needs of girls in underprivileged areas.
Lastly, the intersection of technology and menstrual health is an area ripe for growth. Mobile applications that provide menstrual tracking and education, as well as online platforms for sharing experiences and resources, may become vital tools in supporting women and girls worldwide. As society increasingly recognizes the importance of menstrual hygiene in bolstering gender equality, the future may hold promising solutions that address these pressing challenges.
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