Menstrual Hygiene for Health, Dignity and a Sustainable Environment
Funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and UNICEF, this project highlights menstrual hygiene management as more than a health issue—it is closely connected to dignity, education, environmental sustainability, and gender equality in Bangladesh. The study compared menstrual hygiene practices in climate-vulnerable Shyamnagar, Satkhira, and rapidly urbanizing Ashulia, Dhaka.
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The findings revealed significant gaps in menstrual knowledge, access to affordable products, WASH facilities, and safe menstrual waste management. Laboratory analysis also identified high plastic content and potentially environmentally harmful elements in many commercial sanitary products. Poor disposal practices, including burning, burying, and open dumping, create additional environmental risks.
Importantly, 74% of participants expressed willingness to adopt environmentally friendly menstrual products if they are affordable and accessible, demonstrating strong potential for sustainable solutions.
The research provides evidence for strengthening menstrual health education, improving disaster-resilient WASH facilities, promoting affordable sustainable menstrual products, and developing supportive policies. It contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Ultimately, the project demonstrates that menstrual hygiene management is not only a personal health matter—it is a public health, environmental sustainability, and social equity priority.