Menstrual hygiene in shelters
Women living in the coastal regions face great trouble with menstrual hygiene, especially during disasters, when they have to evacuate to cyclone shelters where there are no facilities for changing or disposing of napkins. Using a sanitary napkin for a long time can make them vulnerable to diseases, and the lack of privacy means women who use rags can't dry them for reuse. Shelters do not provide sanitary napkins and there is no way to source new ones during disasters. The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief must address these issues. Simple solutions such as providing sanitary napkins and separate female toilets can go a long way in menstrual management during disasters.
Samia Jahan, Rajbari Govt College
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