The Hidden Impact Of Poor Menstrual Hygiene On Women’s Reproductive Health
(By Dr. Shachi Singh)
In spite of increasing consciousness and advances in women's health in recent decades, menstrual hygiene has been an underemphasized public health issue in most of the world, but especially in low- and middle-income countries. Poor menstrual hygiene has more than psychological and social implications, it directly risks women's reproductive health quietly and irreversibly.
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The Ground Reality
For women and adolescent girls in India and the developing world, menstruation is a hushed-up subject marred by myths, misconceptions, and limited access to sanitary and safe hygiene facilities. Millions of women and girls still face barrier in managing their periods with dignity, safety and privacy. UNICEF reports that at least 1 in every 4 girls in India skips school during their menstrual cycle due to inadequate sanitation facilities. Perhaps more concerning, however, is the fact that many women use unhygienic substitutes such as old cloth, ash, newspaper, or even sand where there is no access to affordable sanitary products.
This deprivation of menstrual hygiene is usually accompanied by cultural stigma that makes it impossible for free discussion, leaving women in ignorance about the health hazards involved.
The Medical Fallout: More Than Just Infections
Poor menstrual hygiene can result in various reproductive tract infections (bacterial vaginosis candidiasis). If Left untreated, these can progress to pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID) or Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). What is precarious is that most of these infections are asymptomatic at the initial stage and become visible only when complications such as chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancies or infertility develop.
Multiple usage of dirty absorbents will lead to the development of pathogenic bacteria in the vaginal region, disturbing the pH balance and predisposing it to infection. Untreated infections may ascend up the reproductive tract and result in permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, and endometritis (Inflammation or infection of inner lining of uterus).
In addition, unhygienic washing and drying of reusable cloth pads, and improper disposal, can provide a breeding site for pathogens is harmful not only for the user's health but also for the broader community.
Beyond Physical Health: Mental and Emotional Toll
The effects of inadequate menstrual hygiene do not stop at physical well-being. The shame, embarrassment, and stigma attached to menstruation have lasting psychological impacts on girls and women. Girls missing schools due to poor menstrual hygiene facilties or pain often feel left behind or ashamed. Women in workplace without proper toilets or poor disposal may feel stressed or humiliated.
The stress of dealing with periods in the absence of proper resources usually translates to decreased self-esteem, body image problems, and mental issues. In most instances, they go unspoken, but profoundly impact a woman's overall well-being.
Bridging The Gap: What Needs To Change
Reproductive health dangers of poor menstrual hygiene must be addressed through a multi-faceted approach. Awareness programs must extend beyond cities to rural and semi-urban regions. Menstrual health modules, presented scientifically correctly, need to be incorporated in schools for girls and boys to end the culture of silence.
No less critical is enhancing access to affordable, safe, and sustainable menstruation products. Biodegradable sanitary pad innovations, subsidies from the government, and public-private partnerships can facilitate the leap. Furthermore, empowering health workers at the grassroots with menstrual health training can help in early detection and treatment of infections.
Finally, investment in adequate sanitation infrastructure private toilets, access to clean water, and safe disposal systems is necessary for empowering safe menstruation practices.
Dr. Shachi Singh is Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Laparoscopic surgeon at Prakash Hospital
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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