Menstruation, although universal, remains surrounded by a veil of silence and shame in many societies. The taboo persists, but raising awareness about menstruation and promoting menstrual education are essential steps to break this taboo and enable women and girls to live their lives without being limited by their menstrual cycle.

 

The Taboo of Menstruation: A Global Reality

The taboo surrounding menstruation takes many forms around the world. In many cultures, it is surrounded by superstitions and restrictions. For example, in India and Nepal, women are considered impure during their periods. A few things are even forbidden. This leads to shame and ignorance, with multiple consequences, including limited access to menstrual education, the use of inappropriate products, period poverty, and even social stigma.

 

Awareness about Menstruation: Breaking the Silence

The first step in eliminating the taboo of menstruation is to raise awareness. Governments, NGOs, schools, and media play a crucial role in disseminating information about menstruation. They must normalise discussions on this subject and educate women about their own bodies. The goal is to ensure that menstruation is no longer considered a taboo but a normal topic.

 

Menstrual Education: Providing Women and Girls with the Tools They Need

Menstrual education is a key element in the fight against the taboo of menstruation. Women need to understand their menstrual cycle and the options available to them in terms of sanitary products to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

 

Period Poverty: A Crucial Issue

In many parts of the world, period poverty still remains due to economic constraints and other factors. This can create health risks to women. Governments and humanitarian organisations must ensure access to safe and affordable menstrual products for all. Installing tampon and pad dispensers could be a way to fight against period poverty.

 

Breaking the Taboo for a Better Future

The taboo of menstruation is an obstacle to gender equality. By breaking this taboo, we can help women and girls to live comfortably and with dignity, regardless of the time of the month. Therefore, it is essential to normalise discussions about menstruation, provide complete menstrual education, and ensure access to safe and affordable menstrual products.

Iyni is a company that produces different types of period product dispensers so that everyone can have access to free sanitary products and fight against period poverty.