Menstrual Hygiene 2024
Lack of education, ongoing taboos, and stigma cause poor menstrual hygiene. A lack of access to clean menstrual products and bad sanitation also contribute. These problems harm the education, health, and social status of women and girls* worldwide.
As a result, millions of women and girls face obstacles to their full potential. Menstrual Hygiene Day (MH Day) is a global campaign. It unites non profits, governments, individuals, businesses, and the media. The goal is to promote good menstrual health and hygiene (MHH).
MH Day has two key aims. First, it breaks the taboo around menstrual health and hygiene. It raises awareness and shifts negative social norms around MHH. Second, it urges leaders to prioritise and act on MHH at global, national and local levels.
Menstrual Hygiene Day was initiated by the German non-profit WASH United in 2013. WASH United is the global coordinator of MH Day and acts as its international secretariat. WASH United leads the MH Day partner network with over 1,000 organisations. It sets the strategy and direction for MH Day. The non-profit also creates and shares campaign content.
Moreover, it communicates through MH Day channels and represents MH Day at events. WASH United manages strategic partnerships, including with the media and fundraising. It also handles monitoring and reporting.
The Vision
It is possible to create a world where no one is held back because they menstruate. A world where they can manage their periods safely, hygienically, and confidently, without shame.
Our vision includes:
Easy access to affordable menstrual products for everyone
Elimination of period stigma
Basic menstruation information for everyone
Period-friendly facilities for all
Yet, we face a critical lack of progress. To end period poverty and stigma, we need more investment in menstrual health and hygiene right now.