Peering through the leaves, a powerful moment reveals as an adolescent girl engages with HYSAWA’s Menstrual Hygiene Session. In rural Bangladesh, stigma often hides these vital conversations, but HYSAWA is breaking barriers and raising awareness.
Since 2008, HYSAWA has focused on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) to help women and girls manage their periods with comfort and dignity. We believe that effective menstrual hygiene management is essential to the pride and health of girls and women. HYSAWA provides menstrual hygiene learning during hygiene promotion sessions and sets up menstrual hygiene management (MHM) chambers in household latrines.
In recent years, HYSAWA has expanded its approach by providing essential knowledge and raising awareness among selected secondary school girls and adolescents about safe and secure menstrual hygiene management practices. We emphasize the importance of including family members, faith leaders, teachers, local actors, and government officials in these discussions, enhancing their understanding and capacity to promote MHM practices.
To further support this initiative, HYSAWA observes MHM Day each year, distributing hygiene kits that include sanitary napkins, soap, and other essential items. This comprehensive approach aims to promote a supportive environment that empowers girls and women to manage their menstrual health confidently and with dignity.
Case study collected by Mostafa Mohammad Tahan, Media & Communication Officer, HYSAWA, August 2024.