Menstrual Hygiene Day

Menstrual Hygiene Day (MH Day) is an annual awareness day on May 28 to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management (MHM) at a global level. It aims to break the silence, raise awareness, and change negative social norms around menstrual health and hygiene, and engage decision-makers to increase the political priority and catalyze action for menstrual hygiene management, at global, national and local levels.

Background

Menstrual Hygiene Day was initiated by the German-based NGO WASH United in 2014. The date, May 28, was chosen for its symbolism; May represents the 5th month of the year, indicating the average length of the menstrual cycle, which is 28 days. The day brings together non-profits, government agencies, the private sector, the media, and individuals to promote menstrual hygiene management.

Importance

Menstrual hygiene is crucial for the health, well-being, mobility, and productivity of women and girls. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to physical health risks and has been linked to reproductive and urinary tract infections. It also affects the mental and social well-being of women and girls, leading to absenteeism from school or work and restrictions on daily activities. MH Day seeks to address these issues by promoting better hygiene management and breaking the stigma associated with menstruation.

Objectives

The objectives of Menstrual Hygiene Day include:

• To break the silence and build awareness about the fundamental role that good menstrual hygiene management plays in enabling women and girls to reach their full potential.
• To challenge negative social norms around menstruation and engage decision-makers to increase the political priority for menstrual hygiene management.
• To promote the participation of different groups, including men and boys, in advocating for menstrual hygiene.

Activities

Activities around the world on Menstrual Hygiene Day include educational workshops, seminars, and campaigns aimed at breaking taboos surrounding menstruation. These activities are designed to educate both men and women about menstrual hygiene practices. Social media campaigns, public gatherings, and advocacy events also play a significant role in spreading the message.

Impact

Since its inception, Menstrual Hygiene Day has grown in recognition and impact, with hundreds of events being organized worldwide and numerous organizations and governments endorsing the day. It has helped to increase the visibility of menstrual hygiene management as a global issue that requires collective action.

Challenges

Despite the progress made, challenges remain in ensuring that all women and girls have access to safe menstrual hygiene products and are able to manage their menstruation with dignity. Lack of education, cultural taboos, and poverty are significant barriers that still need to be addressed.

See Also

• Menstrual cup
• Sanitary napkin
• Menstruation
• Reproductive health