Bhopal: An awareness campaign on the theme “Ek Kadam Matri Shakti Ki Ore – Women’s Participation” was held at AIIMS Bhopal, as part of Jan Aushadhi Week, observed from March 1-7. As part of the programme, Prof. Dr. K Pushpalatha , Professor and Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , conducted session on “Menstrual hygiene management and healthy eating practices during pregnancy and menstruation“.
Dr. Pushpalatha elaborated in detail on various crucial aspects of menstrual health and hygiene. She discussed the scope and nature of menstrual health, emphasizing its impact on physical, mental, and social well-being throughout the menstrual cycle. She highlighted how menstrual health significantly affects a woman’s overall well-being and addressed the social and cultural norms and myths surrounding menstruation. Stressing the importance of empowering adolescent girls with knowledge about the physiology of menstruation, she emphasized how awareness adds dignity and strength to their personality.
Dr. Pushpalatha also provided insights into the availability of menstrual hygiene toolkit materials, including sanitary napkins (both reusable and disposable), clean reusable cloth pads, menstrual cups, tampons, etc. She stressed the need to wear breathable clothing, change sanitary napkins every 5-6 hours to maintain hygiene, prevent malodor, and avoid infections.