Would you believe if we say millions of girls are still struggling with period poverty? It’s 2024 and yet the condition of girls in India is disheartening. While some women don’t have access to period necessities due to a lack of financial resources, some are prohibited from openly discussing menstruation due to the various taboos and stigmas prevalent in society. 

May 28 is observed as Menstrual Hygiene Day every year. It is observed to draw attention to and address the pressing challenges surrounding menstruation, especially in low-income countries where access to clean water and sanitation is scarce.

Health Risks Of Poor Menstrual Hygiene:- 

Lack of menstrual hygiene can have serious consequences on women’s intimate health. Poor hygiene goes on to deteriorate health in many ways. Here are a few health risks resulting from poor hygiene:

1. Rashes

2. Pelvic inflammatory disease 

3. Urinary tract infections

4. Herpes 

5. Hepatitis B

6. Cervical Cancer

Important Data On The Impact Of Menstruation On Women

• 1 out of 5 girls in India drop out of school due to a lack of menstrual education and access to sanitary products.

• 71% of girls aren’t aware of periods until they experience it

            (Source: Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Survey and Gap Analysis Report)

• 26 million girls are at risk of dropping out of school without period education  
  (Source: UNFPA ASRO Study)

Girls dropping out of school is one of the most unfortunate consequences of poor access to menstrual products and low awareness of women hygiene care tips. Young girls and women from underprivileged sections of society are forced to discontinue education and compromise their careers. 

How did it start?

The Menstrual Hygiene Day campaign was first launched in 2013. Germany-based NGO WASH United started the campaign. Upon receiving a positive response to the campaign, May 28 was established as Menstrual Hygiene Day. 

The theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day this year is: “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.” The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) conducts education initiatives and provides safe sanitation facilities for women in need. 

Bold & Bae Fashion’s Mission To Keep A Girl In School

Acknowledging the gap in menstrual hygiene, Bold & Bae Fashion has embarked on a mission to ‘Keep A Girl In School.’

Bold & Bae Fashion collaborates with NGOs to reach out to underprivileged girls and empower them with menstrual hygiene products.  Our recent collaboration with Nanhi Pari resulted in the donation of sanitary pad packs to over 1000+ girls. Nanhi Pari has a pan-India presence with welfare initiatives conducted for girls nationwide. 

B&B recently conducted its CSR activities in B.S.I.A.S school, Mother Teresa School and Gandhi Memorial English High School & Jr College (Mumbai) by personally donating sanitary napkins to girls and educating them on menstrual hygiene.

Every time we register a sale, we donate one pack of sanitary pads to girls in need. 

This Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s ensure no girl drops out of school due to poor awareness about menstruation and lack of access to menstrual hygiene products. 

Collaborate with us for a noble cause and let’s make a difference in women’s lives. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How regularly should you change your pad?

Selfcare during period also includes changing your sanitary pads in regular intervals. It is recommended to change your pad every 4 hours. Bacteria can build up irrespective of whether you have a heavy or light flow. Changing your at least every 4-6 hours will prevent the risk of infections and ensure good women’s hygiene. 

2. Feminine hygiene tips they don't tell you

• Wear breathable cotton underwear 

• Change out of sweaty undergarments immediately

• Do not use soap or chemicals in intimate areas

• Clean your vagina by rinsing it with water

3. What are good hygiene products for females?

You don’t have to invest too many products to maintain good intimate hygiene. Here are a few products that will help you achieve the best results:

1. Sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups to manage menstruation

2. High-quality panties for women made from breathable fabrics

3. High waist period panties 

4. Women's hygiene wipes

5. Panty liners

4. How can individuals contribute to menstrual support?

Individuals can support women by educating them about period self care, advocating for better policies and facilities, donating menstrual products to those in need, and normalizing conversations about menstruation.

5. How does poor menstrual hygiene impact education?

Lack of facilities to manage menstruation leads to school absenteeism among girls, affecting their education and future opportunities. Providing period essentials and proper facilities in schools in the form of well-equipped toilets can help keep girls in class.