Menstrual Hygiene Management

The Indo-Pak culture comprises of many myths and misconceptions about menstrual hygiene issues which remain unanswered even today. The superstitions, taboos and other social norms that prevail in the society lead to a lot of disorders and fatal consequences like chronic infections. The myths that engulf our society and culture are either traditional or religious. Due to these myths and lack of availability of hygienic facilities, women mostly use unhygienic means like leaves, mud even cow dung during their periods which lead to infections that can even lead to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.

Menstruation, a natural process needs to be tackled with great care but unfortunately, in Pakistan; it is considered a taboo to talk about it. Menstrual hygiene counselling can save women from many infections and physical disorders. Women and the young girls, especially, suffer because of lack of understanding and awareness.

To clarify the myths and misconceptions about MHM in medical and religious perspective, WEG in collaboration with UNICEF started a campaign. Top Islamic Scholars belonging to 4 sects; Ehal-e-Tashee, Ehal-e-Hadees, Deaoband and Barelvi, along with hundreds of prayer leaders were engaged.

The campaign revolved around creating awareness to amongst women and girls about taking proper care of the hygiene and highlighting the precautionary measures to be taken in order to prevent infections. Provide information about the blood flow, its odour, color and the gap between each cycle, also emphasizing on when to see the doctor.

Breaking the myths that women can do all the house chores in their monthly days. They can share their clothes (duppattas and shawls with each other) in their periods without the fear of the transmission of germs and other impurities. Abulation and Oral recitation of verses can also be done during cycle, however, touching Quran is not allowed.