Poverty’s Effects on Menstrual Hygiene: Lack of Access to Sanitary Pads

Poverty affects the health of millions of people around the world. This is especially true in
regards to women’s menstrual hygiene. This article explores the challenges faced by women
living in poverty and its aftermath on their menstrual hygiene. This post also explores possible
solutions to these challenges.

Impacts of poverty on menstrual hygiene

The lack of sanitary products is a serious issue that affects many women and girls around the
world. According to UNICEF, one in ten girls in Africa is absent at school during her period
because she doesn’t have access to sanitary products. This can have a huge impact on their
education and future prospects.
In many countries, women and girls are forced to use old rags, leaves or even ashes during their
periods. Without access to clean water, women and girls cannot wash themselves properly
during their periods. These practices can lead to infection and disease. It can also be
demeaning.

According to the World Health Organization, poor menstrual hygiene is one of the leading
causes of reproductive tract infections (RTIs) in developing countries. RTIs can cause a number
of serious health problems, including infertility
Poverty also means that women and girls may not be able to afford hygienic products like soap
or tampons making it difficult for them to keep clean and healthy during their periods. The lack
of sanitary products can also have a psychological impact on women and girls. They may feel
ashamed of their bodies and think that they are unclean. This might result in low self-esteem
and depression.

Affordable menstrual hygiene products

There are a number of affordable menstrual hygiene products available on the market today.
However, many women cannot afford to purchase these products on a regular basis.

There are a number of ways to improve menstrual hygiene, including using clean water and
soap when washing the genitals, changing pads or tampons regularly, and avoiding tight-fitting
clothing. However, the most important way to improve menstrual hygiene is to use quality
products that are designed for this purpose. One of such products can be the use of reusable
pads made from fabric

Ways to address this issue in communities

There are a number of ways to address this issue in communities. One is for relevant bodies
such as governments, corporate bodies, non-governmental organizations etc., to provide access
to menstrual hygiene products in public places such as schools and community centers. Another
is to provide financial assistance to low-income women to help them purchase these products.
Women and girls can also be given free trainings on how to create hygienic reusable sanitary
pads. In turn, they can step down these trainings to other women and girls in their local
communities.
Still another way to address this issue is through education. Women and girls need to be taught
about the importance of menstrual hygiene and how to properly care for themselves during
their periods. This education should start at an early age and continue throughout a woman’s
life. It should be delivered by those who are trusted and respected within the community, such
as teachers, health care providers, and religious leaders.
Finally, it is important to break the silence around menstruation. Too often, women and girls
feel shame and embarrassment about their periods. This needs to change. Menstruation should
be talked about openly and without stigma so that all women and girls can feel comfortable
discussing this natural process.