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Every year on May 28, the world comes together to recognize the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, a day that doubles as Menstrual Hygiene Day. It is a powerful reminder that women’s health—especially menstrual health—is a fundamental human right and not a privilege. Yet for millions of girls, women, and people who menstruate, this natural bodily function remains shrouded in stigma, shame, and silence.

So, why May 28?

The date is symbolic: May (the 5th month) represents the average 5-day duration of menstruation. And the 28th? That’s the average number of days in a menstrual cycle. Together, the numbers remind us of the rhythm of a cycle that half the world experiences for a significant portion of their lives.

Why Menstrual Hygiene Day Deserves Attention

Despite decades of progress in gender equality and healthcare, many menstruators still deal with shame, discomfort, and even danger because of it. Here’s a quick reality check:

• Lack of access to menstrual products: Millions of people cannot afford or access sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups.
• Inadequate sanitation facilities: Many schools and public places lack clean, private, and safe bathrooms.
• Stigma and taboos: In some cultures, menstruation is still considered impure, leading to isolation or discrimination.
• Lack of education: Inadequate knowledge about menstruation perpetuates myths, misinformation, and fear.

And all of this doesn’t just affect hygiene—it affects education, economic participation, mental health, and overall wellbeing.

Health Issue and Human Rights Issue

Menstrual health intersects with broader issues of reproductive rights, bodily autonomy, and gender equality. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections, reproductive tract issues, and missed opportunities in school or work. This is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal issue. Ensuring safe, hygienic, and stigma-free menstruation is essential to achieving gender equity and empowering communities.

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What Needs to Change

Here’s how we move forward, together:

• Education and Awareness: Normalizing conversations about periods and breaking the silence about menstruation in homes, schools, and workplaces. Menstruation should be part of health education for everyone, regardless of gender.
• Access to Products: Governments and organizations must prioritize making menstrual products affordable, tax-free, and accessible.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Public and school facilities need to be equipped with clean water, private toilets, and disposal systems.
• Policy Advocacy: Menstrual health must be integrated into public health policies and global development agendas.

How You Can Take Action

• Start the conversation: Talk openly about periods at home and in your community.
• Support local organizations: Many grassroots groups are working to distribute products and provide education.
• Advocate for change: Educate yourself, speak up, and vote for policies that prioritize health and dignity for all.
• Use your platform: Whether on social media or in person, advocating for menstrual equity matters.

The Bottom Line

Menstrual Hygiene Day isn’t just about periods—it’s about dignity, equity, health, and respect. It’s a reminder that everyone deserves to manage their menstruation safely, with confidence, and without shame.

Let’s use this day as more than just a commemoration—let’s make it a commitment. Because a healthy period should be a reality for everyone, everywhere. It should be a right, not a privilege.

By:
Mrs. Subathra M,
Assistant Professor,
Department of Department of Biotechnology,
Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology (AVIT),
Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University),
Chennai