International Women’s Day 2025: Importance of Menstrual Hygiene

Every year, on March 8, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD)—an occasion to recognize the achievements of women across various fields, raise awareness against bias, and take collective action for equality. This day is a powerful reminder of the strides we’ve made in advancing women’s rights, but it also serves as a call to address the ongoing challenges that many women and girls still face. Among these challenges, one topic that remains shrouded in stigma and silence, yet is crucial to women’s health and empowerment, is menstrual hygiene.

Breaking the Silence Around Menstrual Hygiene

Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet it continues to be a taboo subject in many parts of the world. For countless women and girls, it’s not just about discomfort—it’s about facing social stigmas, cultural taboos, and a lack of access to basic menstrual hygiene products. On this International Women’s Day, it's vital to shine a spotlight on the issue of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and understand why it matters not only for health but for achieving gender equality.

The Impact of Poor Menstrual Hygiene

Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to severe health complications such as infections, reproductive issues, and even long-term health problems. It also results in girls missing out on education, which affects their future opportunities. The United Nations estimates that 1 in 10 girls in Africa misses school during menstruation, leading to a staggering amount of lost educational hours. Girls who lack access to menstrual hygiene products and facilities often fall behind academically, reinforcing cycles of poverty and gender inequality.

Menstrual Hygiene and Women's Empowerment

When we talk about empowering women, it’s essential to understand that menstrual hygiene is directly linked to a woman’s dignity, health, and well-being. The simple act of providing access to affordable sanitary products, safe sanitation facilities, and menstrual health education can transform lives. It enables women to participate fully in education, work, and community life without fear, shame, or discomfort.

In fact, menstrual hygiene is an issue of basic human rights. It encompasses gender equality, education, and healthcare, aligning directly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). Women cannot reach their full potential if they are held back by something as fundamental as menstruation.

Breaking Barriers Through Advocacy and Action

This International Women’s Day, let us acknowledge the inspiring work of advocates and organizations around the world that are making strides in addressing menstrual hygiene issues. From grassroots initiatives that distribute sanitary products in underserved communities, to global campaigns that raise awareness and push for policy changes, these efforts are breaking the silence and shattering the stigma around menstruation.

Menstrual health education must be normalized, and men should also be part of the conversation. Periods are not just a "women’s issue"; they are a societal issue. Informed communities are empowered communities, and it’s only when we collectively work toward better menstrual hygiene that we can truly create an equitable world for women and girls.

How You Can Make a Difference

This IWD, consider taking action to support menstrual hygiene:

Raise Awareness: Share information about the importance of menstrual hygiene on your platforms. Break the stigma by openly talking about menstruation and why it matters.

Support Organizations: Contribute to organizations that work to provide menstrual products and education to women and girls in need. Organizations like Days for Girls, The Pad Project, and She’s the First are making a significant impact.

Advocate for Policy Changes: Push for policies that ensure access to affordable menstrual products and proper sanitation facilities, especially in schools and workplaces. Governments should make menstrual products tax-free and easily accessible.

Menstrual Education: Support comprehensive menstrual health education programs in schools that equip girls (and boys) with knowledge about reproductive health and hygiene.

Engage Men and Boys: Educate men and boys about menstruation to help break taboos and create supportive environments for women and girls during their periods.

Conclusion: A Future of Dignity and Equality

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s not forget that true gender equality cannot be achieved without addressing the everyday realities faced by women—menstrual hygiene being one of the most fundamental. When girls and women have the knowledge, resources, and freedom to manage their menstrual health with dignity, they are empowered to stay in school, pursue careers, and participate fully in society.

Menstrual hygiene is not just about periods—it’s about human dignity, health, and equality. This International Women’s Day, let’s stand together to create a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to success but a part of the natural cycle of life that is supported, celebrated, and understood.

By making menstrual hygiene a priority, we can pave the way for a more equal, healthier, and empowered future for all women and girls.

FAQs

1. Why is menstrual hygiene important for women’s empowerment?
   Menstrual hygiene is crucial for women’s health, dignity, and full participation in society. When women have access to safe menstrual products and sanitation, they can attend school, work, and lead normal lives without disruption, which helps them achieve their full potential.
   
   

2. How does poor menstrual hygiene affect education?
   Many girls miss school during their periods due to lack of sanitary products and proper facilities. This results in missed educational opportunities and reinforces cycles of poverty and gender inequality.
   
   

3. What can we do to support menstrual hygiene?
   Support organizations that provide menstrual products, advocate for policies that ensure affordable access, raise awareness about menstrual health, and promote comprehensive menstrual education in schools to break taboos.
   
   

4. How is menstrual hygiene connected to International Women’s Day?
   International Women’s Day celebrates women’s achievements and promotes gender equality. Addressing menstrual hygiene is key to achieving gender equality, as it affects women’s health, education, and ability to participate in society without stigma or barriers.

Sources 

1. https://ijwhr.net/pdf/pdf_IJWHR_710.pdf

2. https://www.unicef.org/wash/menstrual-hygiene

3. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html