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May 28 is Menstrual Hygiene Day which is an endeavour to promote menstrual hygiene and remove the stigma attached to this natural biological process for women.
Even today, awareness about menstruation, easy availability of menstrual hygiene products and easy access to toilets, water, pads, soaps, and access to a proper disposal system is lacking. Helping girls and women properly manage their menstrual cycle without stigma is the need of the hour.
Why we need to talk about menstrual hygiene
Often women cannot manage their menstrual cycle and miss out on work, education and good opportunities. Also, women are considered inferior to men because of myths and taboos attached to menstruation. This results in gender inequality and widens the gender gap.
Making men a part of the conversation:
Menstruation is a natural process and should be acceptable by the society as a whole including men and boys. Including men into such conversations and sensitising them will create an environment of comfort and support for women.
Why May 28?
There is a reason behind celebrating this day on May 28. On an average, a woman bleeds for 5 days every month, ie approximately after every 28 days. May, being the fifth month represents those five days.
1. The first Menstrual Hygiene Day was celebrated on May 28, 2014.
2. The pioneer of this movement is WADH UNITED, an NGO that works to combat proper sanitation and hygiene problems.
3. The biggest MH Day event took place in 2016 with 180 events in 34 countries.
4. The initiative has 410 partner organisations.
(Source: Menstrualhygieneday.org)
And so like Aranya Johar says in the video, it's time to erase the taboos around menstruation, paint the town red with pride and ensure proper menstrual hygiene.
