“The true measure of a society’s civilization is its treatment of its women and children”: Mahatma Gandhi

January 24 is observed as National Girl Child Day

By Dr Vinita Singh

National Girl Child Day, celebrated annually on 24^th January, is a national observance dedicated to recognizing and empowering girls around the world. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the unique challenges and barriers girls face in our society and the urgent need to break down these barriers for their well-being and development. While It’s a day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and potential of girls it’s also equally important to promote their rights and opportunities.

Menstruation is a natural and vital aspect of a woman’s reproductive health, yet it has been shrouded in stigma and silence for centuries. Menstrual health and hygiene are critical components of women’s overall well-being, and addressing these issues is essential for promoting gender equality and ensuring the dignity of every woman.

One of the primary challenges surrounding menstrual health is the prevalence of societal taboos and misconceptions. Many cultures still view menstruation as impure or shameful, leading to secrecy and a lack of open dialogue. This silence often results in inadequate knowledge about menstrual hygiene practices, causing women and girls to face difficulties in managing their periods effectively. Menstrual hygiene is more than just access to sanitary pads and appropriate toilets – though those are important. It is also about ensuring women and girls live in an environment that values and supports their ability to manage their menstruation with dignity.

In India millions of girls lack proper access to menstrual hygiene facilities and more than one-third of schools lack single-sex toilets. For adolescent girls, the presence of a safe water supply and clean, functioning, private toilet facilities for managing their menstruation can be the difference between dropping out and getting an education. Additionally, lack of proper menstrual hygiene products increases risk of reproductive and urinary tract infections.

These hygiene practices can help you stay healthy and comfortable during your period:

1. Use of Sanitary Products:

• Sanitary Pads: Disposable pads are widely used and easily available.
• Tampons: Inserted into the vagina, tampons are another option.
• Menstrual Cups: Reusable cups collect menstrual blood. They are eco-friendly and can be used for several years with proper care.

2. Regular Changing of Products:

• Whether using pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, regular changing is crucial to prevent odours and infections.

3. Proper Disposal:

• Used sanitary products should be disposed of properly in designated bins to prevent environmental pollution and maintain hygiene.

4. Personal Hygiene and handwashing:

• Regular bathing and washing of the genital area help prevent infections and maintain cleanliness.
• Thorough handwashing before and after changing sanitary products is essential to prevent the spread of bacteria.

5. Choose Cotton Underwear:

• Cotton underwear is breathable and reduces the risk of irritation compared to synthetic fabrics.

6. Maintain a Balanced Diet and stay hydrated:

• A healthy diet contributes to overall well-being, including menstrual health.
• Drinking plenty of water helps alleviate bloating and can contribute to overall comfort during menstruation.

7. Comfort Measures:

• Hot water bottles, warm baths, or over-the-counter pain relievers can provide comfort during menstrual cramps.

8. Awareness and Education:

• Understanding one’s menstrual cycle and being aware of potential issues can contribute to better menstrual hygiene.

9. Seek Medical Advice:

• An annual well-woman exam is a full check-up that includes a pap smear, a pelvic exam, and a breast exam. These exams are essential for good reproductive health as they can catch early signs of cancer or other health issues. Talk to a doctor if you experience a change in your cycle length, have extreme or unusual pain, or have more severe period symptoms than usual (such as a heavier flow or longer period).

10. Maintain Regular Exercise:

• Engaging in regular physical activity can help manage menstrual symptoms and improve overall well-being.

11. Stay Informed:

• Keeping up to date with advancements in menstrual health, including new products and hygiene practices, ensures that women can make informed choices.

In conclusion, menstrual health and hygiene are integral components of women’s rights and well-being. Breaking the silence, dispelling myths, and ensuring access to education and products are essential steps toward fostering a world where every woman and girl can manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence. By addressing these issues collectively, we move closer to a society where menstruation is embraced as a natural and empowering aspect of a woman’s life. We at Tata Main Hospital believe all women have the right to menstruate with confidence, with dignity and with support, and strive to provide information and treatment to all issues related to menstrual health and hygiene.

(Author is Chief of Medical Indoor Services, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur. The views expressed are personal.)