Menstrual health awareness programme held at Mir Behri
Srinagar, Dec 28: In a continued effort to promote women’s health, environmental sustainability, and social awareness, WeTheChange India, a Delhi-based non-governmental organisation, organised a comprehensive menstrual health and hygiene awareness session today at Mir Behri area of Dal interiors.
The community-based programme was led by Saba Riyaz, Ph.D., State Lead for Jammu and Kashmir, along with her team members. The organisation has been actively working in Kashmir since 2022, when its founder Farheen Naaz initiated menstrual health awareness sessions in remote areas of the Valley and in a leading educational institution, breaking long-standing taboos around menstruation.
Speaking at the session, Saba Riyaz emphasised that menstrual health is not just a personal issue but a public health, environmental, and human rights concern. The session aimed to empower women with accurate information about menstruation while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly menstrual practices, aligning the initiative with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
The organiser’s in a statement said women from the local community were introduced to various menstrual management options, including disposable sanitary pads, reusable cloth pads, period panties, and menstrual cups.
Detailed discussions were held on the health and environmental impact of commonly used sanitary products. Participants were informed that most conventional pads contain high levels of plastic and harmful chemicals, contributing to environmental pollution and posing serious health risks such as hormonal imbalance and increased susceptibility to reproductive health disorders, including cervical cancer.
The session strongly advocated the use of organic and biodegradable sanitary products, which decompose naturally and significantly reduce waste generation. Several sustainable menstrual product brands available in the market—such as Zeevah, Nua, Azah, Pee Safe, Plush, Avni, and Fab Pad—were discussed to help women make informed and safe choices.
As part of the outreach, 100 free Zeevah organic sanitary pads, certified to be biodegradable within six months and free from chemicals, plastic, and skin irritants, were distributed among participants. Additionally, Menstrupedia mini comic books were provided to simplify menstrual education, covering topics such as the biology of menstruation, hygiene practices, self-care, and the importance of balanced nutrition during periods.
Adding further value to the programme, Dr Rehana Kausar, Gynaecologist and Consultant in Maternal and Child Health at SMHS Hospital, Karan Nagar, Srinagar, served as a resource person and offered consultations to women experiencing menstrual or reproductive health concerns.
Participants described the session as informative, reassuring, and empowering. Organisers noted that such initiatives not only improve menstrual health awareness but also foster environmental responsibility and dignity for women, particularly in underserved communities.
