Menstrual hygiene management in flood-affected Pakistan: Addressing challenges and ensuring women's health and dignity

Authors

Zarnab Tufail, Gujranwala Medical College, Gujranwala, Pakistan
Wania Ahmer, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
Shanza Gulzar, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
Muhammad Hasanain, Aga Khan University
Hussain Haider Shah, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan

Document Type

Article

Department

Internal Medicine

Abstract

Pakistan's recent floods have worsened women's and girls' menstrual hygiene problems, compromising their health, dignity, and well-being. Supply chain issues, poor facilities, and cultural stigma limit menstrual products and hygiene management. Gender-sensitive disaster management and menstrual health education programmes can help. The Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) can provide emergency reproductive health services. Involving men, working with religious leaders, and pre-disaster planning for menstrual hygiene management can help break the taboo and increase access to resources. Meeting ongoing needs requires timely menstrual hygiene product distribution, restocking, and renewal. By addressing these issues, Pakistan can empower post-flood women and girls through economic opportunities and legal protection.

Comments

Volume, issue, and pagination are not provided by the author/publisher.

Publication (Name of Journal)

Frontiers in global women's health

DOI

10.3389/fgwh.2023.1238526

Recommended Citation

Tufail, Z., Ahmer, W., Gulzar, S., Hasanain, M., Shah, H. H. (2023). Menstrual hygiene management in flood-affected Pakistan: Addressing challenges and ensuring women's health and dignity. Frontiers in global women's health.
Available at: https://ecommons.aku.edu/pakistan_fhs_mc_med_intern_med/236