Menstrual Health and Its Profound Impact on Mental Well-being

Menstrual Health and Its Profound Impact on Mental Well-being By: Bhavana Jala Nerella (Volunteer at HEEALS)

Menstrual hygiene management and practices among adolescent females in low and middle income countries pose significant challenges for girls, parents, society, and policymakers. The prevalence of menstrual-related problems among adolescent girls in India is a concerning issue, indicating socio-cultural and regional variations. These menstrual abnormalities and disorders have wide-ranging effects on physical, mental, social, psychological, and reproductive aspects, profoundly impacting the daily lives of adolescents and their families. In this article, we explore the intricate relationship between menstrual health and mental well-being, shedding light on the critical need for awareness, education, and access to menstrual hygiene products. 

Here are some examples of unhygienic menstrual practices:

1. Using cloth or rags instead of sanitary pads or tampons: This can lead to inadequate absorption, prolonged moisture exposure, and an increased risk of infection.

2. Reusing menstrual materials without proper cleaning: Repeated use without proper washing and disinfection can introduce harmful bacteria and increase the chances of infection.

3. Improper hand hygiene: Failing to wash hands before and after changing menstrual materials can introduce harmful bacteria and increase the risk of contamination.

4. Lack of proper disposal: Improper disposal of used menstrual materials, such as flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in open areas, can lead to environmental pollution and hygiene concerns.

5. Insufficient personal hygiene during menstruation: Neglecting personal hygiene practices, such as not washing the genital area or changing menstrual materials frequently, can increase the risk of infections and discomfort.

6. Using unsanitary materials for insertion or absorption: Inserting non-sterile objects, such as sticks or leaves, for absorption or makeshift tampons can introduce harmful bacteria and cause infections.

7. Belief in harmful myths and cultural practices: Some cultural practices, such as avoiding bathing or certain foods during menstruation, can contribute to unhygienic conditions and perpetuate harmful myths surrounding menstruation. 

A study conducted with a sample size of 471 college attending women revealed that period poverty, experienced by 14.2% of women, significantly correlated with depression. The findings showed a gradient effect, with higher rates of moderate to severe depression among women facing regular period poverty. Those experiencing monthly period poverty had a higher likelihood of reporting depressive symptoms (68.1%) compared to those who had any period poverty (61.2%) or no period poverty (43.4%).

Another study involving over 12,000 adolescent girls aged 10-19 in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar found a strong association between depressive symptoms and menstrual irregularities. Girls with mild, moderate, or severe depressive symptoms were more likely to experience menstrual irregularities compared to those with minimal depressive symptoms. The study also highlighted that the use of inadequate materials, such as cloth or other materials instead of sanitary napkins, further increased the likelihood of menstrual irregularities. Thus, poor menstrual hygiene practices contribute to both mental health issues and menstrual problems. Insufficient access to affordable menstrual products has detrimental effects on the mental wellbeing of young women. Globally, an estimated 500 million women and girls lack access to adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. In regions such as Bangladesh, over 80% of menstruating women resort to inadequate materials like old cloth instead of hygienic products like pads or tampons. This unmet need for menstrual products adversely impacts educational outcomes, contributing to school absenteeism or dropout rates. Efforts to combat period poverty and improve mental health should include increased access to affordable menstrual products. For example, the project led by BJP called Jan Aushadi Kendra has brought about a way to provide pads for 1 rupee which has benefitted lakhs of women across India. However, much more still needs to be done as many are unaware of this, access is difficult, and the quality is sacrificed at the expense of cost. 

Additionally, the stigma surrounding menstruation must be addressed through comprehensive education and awareness campaigns. Proper education and knowledge regarding good hygiene practices are crucial for both adolescent girls and their mothers, fostering a supportive environment and breaking the barriers surrounding menstrual health. The intertwined relationship between menstrual health and mental well-being necessitates action. Bridging the gap in access to menstrual hygiene products, promoting awareness, and providing education on menstrual hygiene practices are vital steps towards empowering young women. By addressing these issues, we can enhance the mental well-being and overall quality of life for countless individuals, ensuring that no one's potential is limited by their menstrual health challenges.

On a personal note growing up as a South Indian girl living in the duality of western values with a unique blend of orthodox values at home menstruation has posed a great impact on my life as a whole. Being ousted amongst family members and set in isolation during what I would consider the most vulnerable period of time for any women even more so as a growing adolescent. The further impact that has had on my mental health may seem small in a bird’s eye view however has had enormous impact on the way I’ve perceived the world. This time for is a very personal and tender time to be treated with some kindness, empathy, and consideration. I not only hope but deeply pray with a heavy heart that we as an entire country start to see a more sensible manner not for ourselves but for the happiness of all our daughters.

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References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30633137

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2018/05/25/menstrual-hygiene-management

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9229495/

https://www.ircwash.org/sites/default/files/bnhbs.pdf

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35422014/