Today, as we kick off Menstrual Hygiene and Management Week 2024, we wanted to use this video to highlight the lack of awareness around a simple biological phenomenon that affects millions of girls and women in India: menstruation, commonly termed as periods.
The Milaan Foundation team couldn’t stop admiring Whisper India’s latest commercial for its wholesome yet enlightening message. Who could have ever imagined mistaking a period for a fish bone stuck from last night’s dinner! Well, Whisper takes us on a journey where an 8-year-old and her friends think just that. Whisper cleverly uses this mix of innocent humor and relief to drive home an important message.
In a country like India, the myths about menstruation still run rampant and education is key. Even today, only about 36% of women use sanitary products while the rest resort to unsafe homegrown methods, such as using leaves or rags soaked with gasoline. For over 20% of young girls in India, the onset of menstruation also means missing school days due to a lack of proper facilities, education, and support. With girls as young as 8 now starting their period, the need and urgency to normalize conversations around menstruation is more vital than ever.
That’s why Milaan Foundation is working towards educating girls and boys alike about menstruation hygiene at a grass root level. Throughout each of our programs, including the Girl Icon Program, the Unmukt Adolescent Program, and Swarachna School, we’re debunking these myths, breaking down barriers, and empowering young minds with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this natural part of life.
At the same time, we realize that we cannot fight this fight alone and we invite you to join us to shush the shushing. Let us break down taboos together and empower our young girls to take charge of their health and futures. We’d love to hear your thoughts and learn about other initiatives or how you would like to make a difference in the comments below.
#MenstrualHygieneDay #MHM #Education #GenderEquality #Whisper #MenstrualHealth #CorporateResponsibility #CSR #Empowerment #Health #India #LetGirlsLearn #PeriodFriendlyWrold National Health Mission, Uttar Pradesh National Health Mission, Department of Public Health and Family Welfare, Govt of Madhya Pradesh
Video Credit: Whisper India
Public Engagement & Creative Communication | Coverdell Fellow @ Duke | International Development Policy
2wVery interesting! Sad to have missed this, but would love to view a recording, if it is available.