Menstrual Hygiene Day: Why It's So Important
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28 May 2024
Menstruation is a completely natural and universal phenomenon, associated with normal female reproduction
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Most women menstruate each month for about 3-7 days. Yet, as normal as it is, menstruation is stigmatised around the world
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It is surrounded by negative perceptions, and communication about it is typically limited to its pain, inconvenience and embarrassment
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To break the silence, raise awareness and change the negative social norms around menstruation, May 28 is annually observed as the Menstrual Hygiene Day
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The day seeks to address the taboos and stigmas associated with menstruation and promote access to menstrual products, education, and sanitation facilities
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The theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day this year is: “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”
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The date, May 28th, symbolises the average 28-day menstrual cycle and the average duration of menstruation, which is five days
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Talking about it is important because hundreds of millions of people lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual health
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Poor menstrual health and hygiene undercut fundamental rights for women, and erode their confidence and limit life opportunities
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It can also pose physical health risks and has been linked to reproductive and urinary tract infections
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Using the right sanitary product, changing them regularly, and maintaining personal hygiene are some ways to reduce the risk of infections and odours
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