Experts Warn of Infection Risk for Girls Using Clothes During Menstruation

In Bangladesh, a significant number of girls and women are resorting to using old clothes during their periods due to the high cost and limited availability of sanitary napkins. This practice is putting them at a highrisk, aroundof developing vaginal infections, experts warn.

Why this matters: The lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene products has far-reaching consequences, including increased school absenteeism and perpetuation of gender inequality. Moreover, it highlights the need for governments and policymakers to prioritize menstrual health as a critical aspect of public health and human right.

According to the National Hygiene Survey conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) in 2018, only 30% of women in the country use disposable sanitary napkins. The survey found that in 2019, 63% of women used old clothes during menstruation, a decrease from 85% in 2014.

The lack of proper facilities and awareness about menstrual hygiene management poses a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas where many women and girls cannot afford sanitary products. The average cost of a single napkin is Tk 10, while a packet of 10 napkins costs Tk 100, making them unaffordable for a large segment of the population.

Experts suggest that including menstrual hygiene management in the school curriculum and sensitizing boys about the subject can help break the taboo surrounding menstruation. They also emphasize the need for all schools to have proper menstruation hygiene facilities to prevent girls from staying at home during their periods.

To address the affordability issue, experts recommend that local pharmaceutical companies produce and sell sanitary napkins at a low cost, with support from the government to make this initiative successful. Prioritizing menstrual health is crucial for promoting equality, dignity, and human rights for individuals who menstruate.

The National Hygiene Survey also revealed that only 32% of women knew about menstruation before they experienced it. School absenteeism among girls remains a significant challenge due to the lack of proper facilities. Overcoming the stigma and shame associated with menstruation is essential for promoting gender equality and addressing human rights violations.

Key Takeaways

• In Bangladesh, 63% of women use old clothes during menstruation due to high cost of sanitary napkins.
• Lack of menstrual hygiene products leads to increased school absenteeism and gender inequality.
• Only 30% of Bangladeshi women use disposable sanitary napkins, highlighting a significant public health issue.
• Affordability is a major barrier, with a single napkin costing Tk 10 and a packet of 10 costing Tk 100.
• Including menstrual hygiene in school curriculum and providing facilities can help break the taboo and promote equality.