Economic Crisis Intensifies Period-Poverty

Internationally the issue of period poverty is being recognized, and international organizations are stressing to address the issue appropriately. The World Health Organization (WHO) urges the recognition, framing, and addressing of menstrual health as a matter of health and human rights rather than solely as a matter of hygiene.

During my work with rural women, I frequently visit the field and interact with women living in rural areas. The conditions under which these women live and the challenges they face in their daily lives are unimaginable. They endure a life of deprivation and receive minimal priority within their families. Access to clean drinking water, proper nutrition, adequate shelter, and even basic clothing are luxuries they often lack. The health and hygiene of women in these areas are not prioritized, and they are ill-prepared to manage their monthly menstrual cycles hygienically.

Period poverty, which refers to the inability to afford menstrual products, is a prevalent issue affecting numerous women and girls in both rural and urban areas of Pakistan. Many of them face financial constraints that prevent them from purchasing sanitary pads or other essential supplies. Currently, a medium-sized pack of sanitary napkins costs around 700/- PKR, which is the price for one menstrual cycle. This cost proves burdensome for many educated women who cannot afford to spend such a significant amount on sanitary products. Additionally, a considerable number of women lack information about these products or do not have easy access to them.

Women living in poverty often lack information about menstrual products available in the market, and even if they have awareness, they lack the resources to afford them. Furthermore, these women face limited access to markets where these products are sold. Additionally, as they are not usually the decision-makers within their families, they have little say in determining what is needed for their own well-being. In families facing financial constraints and struggling to meet basic living standards, allocating money for menstrual products is often considered a luxury. The primary focus for such families is to secure food to feed the family, and they perceive these products as unnecessary expenses.

According to a study by WaterAid & UNICEF on schoolgirls in South Asia, “Only 17% of Pakistani girls have access to sanitary napkins, with 66% using cloth, 49% of whom rewash and reuse this cloth”.

The main challenge faced by women and girls in Pakistan is the lack of access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products. Many rely on unhygienic alternatives such as rags, newspapers, or even leaves, increasing the risk of infection and discomfort. The cultural taboo surrounding menstruation further perpetuates shame and secrecy, preventing open dialogue and education on the topic.

Additionally, inadequate sanitation facilities in schools, workplaces, and public spaces make it difficult for women and girls to manage their menstrual hygiene effectively. The absence of clean and private toilets with running water poses a significant challenge, particularly for those in rural areas and low-income communities.

Recognizing the urgency of addressing menstrual hygiene and period poverty, both government and non-governmental organizations have undertaken various initiatives to bring about change. The government and civil society have collaborated with international partners to implement awareness campaigns and educational programs, focusing on breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation.

However, there is a need to adopt a holistic approach to tackle the issue in the country. Comprehensive menstrual health education should be incorporated into school curricula to ensure that girls are informed about menstruation, hygiene practices, and menstrual product options. Open discussions on menstrual health and breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation will contribute to the normalization of the topic.

Raising awareness and educating families, particularly male members who often hold decision-making roles, is crucial in addressing menstrual health issues. By promoting understanding and knowledge about menstruation, efforts can be made to normalize sanitary napkins as essential household items, similar to groceries. It is important to provide mothers with information about maintaining clean and healthy practices during the menstrual cycle, enabling them to educate their daughters effectively. By empowering mothers with this knowledge, they can play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being and proper hygiene practices of their daughters. Education and awareness are key to breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation and promoting a supportive and informed environment for girls and women.

Menstrual health is recognized as a human right; therefore, tax reforms that reduce the cost of sanitary napkins are essential to uphold women’s rights and ensure menstrual health and hygiene. Menstruation is a natural process, and taxing these products places an additional financial burden on women. Implementing tax reforms creates a favorable environment for the local manufacturing industry, leading to job creation and contributing to the country’s overall economic development.

Improving sanitation infrastructure, particularly in schools and public spaces, is essential. Clean and private toilets with running water should be accessible to all, allowing women and girls to manage their menstrual hygiene with dignity. Continued efforts are required to break the cultural taboos and misconceptions surrounding menstruation are crucial. Engaging community leaders, religious institutions, and media in promoting awareness and dispelling prevailing myths surrounding the issue of menstrual health.