Menstrual Hygiene Management is a critical part of our work at SSMF. In India, the majority of girls learn about menstruation only when they experience their first period — often in fear, confusion, and silence. Treated as a taboo, menstruation is rarely discussed at home or in school, leading to a deep-rooted culture of shame and misinformation.
This silence has serious consequences. Nearly one in four girls drops out of school upon reaching puberty. Many are forced into seclusion, barred from participating in daily life — including attending school, visiting places of worship, entering kitchens, or sharing meals with family.
The problem goes beyond social exclusion. A lack of awareness and access to safe menstrual products has serious health implications. Studies show that around 90% of women in India do not use sanitary pads, often resorting to unhygienic alternatives like rags, ash, newspapers, or sand — increasing their risk of infections and long-term reproductive health issues.
Ensuring access to affordable, safe menstrual products and comprehensive education can break this cycle of silence and restore dignity to millions.
Through our comprehensive
WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)
programs, we address these challenges holistically:
Awareness and Education
We conduct sessions in schools and communities to break the silence around menstruation, debunk myths, and normalize periods.
Access to Products
We distribute sanitary napkins and provide training on their safe and hygienic use.
Disposal Solutions
We are developing and supporting the installation of safe disposal mechanisms in schools and rural areas.
Community Engagement
We engage parents, teachers, and local leaders to challenge stigma and create supportive environments for menstruating girls.
Our MHM initiatives are transforming lives — helping girls stay in school, safeguarding their health, and restoring their dignity.