Menstrual dignity is a crucial issue for young women, particularly in marginalized communities such as refugee communities. Despite progress in gender equality, stigma and challenges persist, affecting those already marginalized. Lack of access to hygiene products, sanitation facilities, and education exacerbates these issues. This article explores the complexities of menstrual dignity, societal, economic, and cultural factors, and calls for inclusive policies, education, and support systems. It sheds light on the impact of a lack of menstrual dignity and its correlation quality of life in marginalized communities. This piece is written based on the real stories and challenges of marginalized women and girls and the work of influential people to enhance their quality of life.
Dr. Maya Sravannthi, a Psycho-oncologist says that youths are struggling with challenges related to menstruation that they should not be, living in the 21st century, the era of information. They are struggling with taboos, discrimination, and lack of accessibility to menstrual products and more.
A survey was conducted to capture the views of the refugee youth leaders and other active Indian youth leaders from different walks of life and experiences. They described menstruation as a natural process for women and girls but, if this is the case, then why are there taboos and discrimination around it? Why are girls and women ashamed of the topic? The refugee girls learned about the period from their mothers when it occurred for the first time and did not have any information about it before getting their first menstrual cycle. They often learned about it from their friends. Those who did not have prior conversations about it felt embarrassed and had an uncomfortable experience that took a negative toll on their mental and physical health. Non-refugee host communities, on the other hand, reported prior education about menstruation.
However, the common trait in both groups is that they are still uncomfortable discussing menstruation and its impact on their quality of life with other genders but feel at ease while discussing it with other women. When it comes to seeking assistance, they are unable to turn to doctors due to a lack of accessibility and information. The Internet also has its pros and cons when it comes to the sensitive topic of menstruation and does not always provide the right solution to the given problems.
One of the participants mentioned an unpleasant experience about the time she got her first period, she didn't have proper information and thus was not able to manage the situation, which led to a stain mark on her skirt. Making the situation worse, another woman embarrassed her further by showing the mark.
Another woman expressed her experience of menstruating in school, where due to lack of information, and lack of access to menstrual products she felt extremely embarrassed.
There are several stigmas and taboos around menstruators on what they can and not do while menstruating like being productive, going to specific religious sites, eating certain foods, and more. For instance, in the Afghan context women and girls are not supposed to discuss any topic associated with menstruation with their male family members, let alone with other men, as it is seen as improper and shameful. There is also invalidation when it comes to period pain such as cramps, mood swings, and more. Many respondents expressed that their quality of life is impacted due to pain, and disturbs their sleep, and eating habits.
Today's women and girls are comfortable discussing issues related to menstruation with their close friends, seeking assistance online, and few from professionals. When it comes to menstrual products, the majority of these young women are comfortable using sanitary napkins compared to other products due to the availability, accessibility, and lack of knowledge.
They hope that society can talk about menstruation freely and break the taboos, stigmas, and discrimination through education not just for girls, and women, but equally including other genders to form an inclusive discussion around it and enhance their quality of life. I believe there is more need for public awareness about different aspects of SRHR and its impact on the lives of youths, particularly in my refugee community. It is crucial, specifically for girls and women to know about the different aspects of SRHR and its impact on their quality of life.
