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Scarcity In Menstrual Supplies For Women In Developing Countries.

By: Aanya Laddha and Grace

Adequate menstrual health and hygiene has been a constant struggle for women worldwide. In regions where sanitary products are not affordable by the public, women suffer from poor hygiene, health problems, and social stigma. In addition to immediate health effects, period poverty also extends into education, employment, and decreases the overall quality of living. Evidently, these consequences highlight the urgent need for collective awareness in this overlooked crisis.





Rolling up pads under sleeves, whispering for pads, and dealing with cramps are only a few of the many inconveniences women face. Other than the lack of hygienic supplies in rural countries, clean water and private changing places are also needed. In 2021, a CNN survey in Ethiopia reported,“While two-thirds in Ethiopia said they had a private place to wash and change, only 38% and 40% said it was clean and safe, respectively.” Despite global efforts, menstruation still remains a taboo in developing countries. Limited access to affordable menstrual products can lead to reduced workforce participation and productivity. This results in a decline in education and employment opportunities for women, contributing to gender inequality.


The access to affordable menstrual products and comprehensive education should be prioritized as a fundamental human right; until this is achieved, only then will we be able to move toward a world where women can achieve their full potential, unhindered by social limitations.



 

References

Kottasová, I. (2021, July 1). It's 2021 and women around the world are still struggling to safely manage their periods. CNN. Retrieved October 18, 2023, from https://edition.cnn.com/2021/07/01/world/menstrual-health-period-poverty-intl/index.html



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