Scotland has led the world by becoming the first nation to enact the Period Products Act, legally safeguarding free access to period products for all residents. This act aims to alleviate period poverty, a term referring to those on low income who can’t afford or access suitable menstruation products.
According to the provisions of this act, an array of period products must be freely available in bathrooms of schools, universities, colleges, and local government bodies. In addition to this, all councils in Scotland are mandated to work alongside local communities to decide the best access point for these essential menstrual products.
The Period Products Act also introduced the PickUpMyPeriod mobile application to guide users to the nearest location like libraries, community centers, public gyms, town halls, pharmacies, and doctor’s offices where they can pick up period products for free.
Status of Menstrual Hygiene in India
The state of menstrual hygiene in India is a matter of concern. A study conducted by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2011 indicated that only 13% of the girls in India possess awareness about menstruation prior to their first cycle. The survey also revealed that around 60% of the girls missed school due to menstruation, while 79% experienced low confidence and 44% felt humiliated and embarrassed due to restrictions related to menstruation.
Notably, these figures indicate the adverse impact of menstruation on women’s education, equality, and maternal and child health. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), menstrual product usage among women aged 15-24 years varied across states. For instance, Bihar reported less than 60% usage, while Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands boasted figures as high as 99%.
Indian Government’s Approach to Menstrual Hygiene
The Indian Government has initiated several programs to promote menstrual hygiene. Implemented in 2013-14, the Shuchi Scheme aims at spreading awareness regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls.
Further, the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme launched in 2011 focuses on promoting menstrual hygiene amongst adolescent girls aged 10-19 years residing in rural areas of selected districts. The SABLA programme enacted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development concentrates on nutrition, health, hygiene, and reproductive and sexual health.
Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission, the government supports self-help groups and small manufacturers to produce sanitary pads. Additionally, the Swachh Bharat Mission and Swachh Bharat: Swachh Vidyalaya (SB:SV) have integrated menstrual hygiene management as an essential part of their objectives.
Guidelines for Gender Issues in Sanitation
To ensure gender equality and empowerment of women and girls with respect to sanitation, the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation introduced Guidelines for Gender Issues in Sanitation in 2017. The National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management were released by the same ministry in 2015, which aimed to tackle all elements of menstrual hygiene ranging from awareness to product accessibility.
Looking Ahead
Taking a leaf out of Scotland’s book, the Government of India should consider making period products available at a reasonable concession or discount. Besides, it can promote small-scale sanitary pad manufacturing units to make low-cost pads more accessible and simultaneously generate income for women.
However, addressing menstrual health requires a holistic approach. It not only calls for governmental efforts to raise awareness and provide access to safe products but also requires societal, community, and familial interventions.