Promote the use of sanitary napkins among rural women

According to research over 88% of women in India do not use sanitary napkins. Sanitary napkins are generally unavailable in rural areas of the country and if available, they are too expensive for rural households to afford.

Therefore, women resort to age-old alternatives like cloth, ashes, and husk sand during menstruation. These substitutes are not only extremely uncomfortable but also the cause of various diseases and infections, some of which have lifelong effects.

We intervened with the help of a sanitary napkin unit run by a group of women. This unit produces napkins that are of the same quality as their branded competitors and cost much less. This makes sanitary napkins both accessible and affordable to women in this region.

The SHG members in the village also run campaigns to create awareness among adolescent girls and women about the importance of hygienic sanitation practices. We encourage them to use clean napkins regularly and dispose of used ones properly. We also promote basic practices like washing hands after using the toilet.

A packet of sanitary napkins bought from the unit comes to Rs. 40 (less than a dollar). A donation from you can ensure safety and sanitation to a woman during menstruation.