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Given the increased attention to and investment in menstrual health and hygiene globally and in India, the limited discourse around the intersection of menstruation and disability is striking and needs attention and action. Attempting to fill these lacunae to the extent possible, this white paper outlines the key challenges and constraints faced by PwDs with regard to menstrual health and hygiene, and presents simple and potentially scalable solutions.

The paper draws on the experiences and solutions shared by individuals and organizations working closely with persons with varied disabilities across India. Salient areas for action to promote good menstrual health of PwDs include:

  • Information, Education and Communication (IEC) on menstrual health and hygiene in accessible formats that are appropriate for PwD with differential needs and functioning capacities
  • An enabling socio-cultural environment for menstrual health and hygiene
  • Appropriate and safe menstrual absorbents, and hygiene promotion
  • Responsive and inclusive WASH facilities, including disposal solutions in different settings (home, school, place of work) and humanitarian contexts