Beyond Hygiene Practices: Assessing Menstrual Health among Girls and Young Women in Metropolitan Slum Settings of Mumbai

Name of the Presenting Author: 
Paramita Majumdar
Abstract Content (not more than 300 word, should include: Introduction, Objective, Methodology, critical findings & Conclusion): 
Menstrual health management remains compromised in resource poor settings. This exploratory study examines menstrual health management (MHM) among poor girls and young women in Mumbai’s slums, where patriarchal norms and limited resources prevail. We employ a comprehensive measure of MHM that encompasses not only menstrual product use and access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) but also MHM-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Findings reveal that only about 26% of girls and young women experience good MHM in these slums. While exclusive use of hygienic menstrual products is near universal, fewer have access to WASH, girls are inadequately aware of the different aspects of menstruation, adhere to traditional norms and are unable to experience menstruation with dignity. Multivariable findings highlight a strong association between girls’ agency and social networks and their menstrual health management experiences, underscoring the need for comprehensive adolescent education activities that build girls’ ability to exercise informed choice.

Abstract theme:

In case of not been selected for oral presentation, do you want to be considered for the poster presentation ?: 
Yes
Do you require financial support to attend the seminar ? (Not applicable for virtual meet): 
Yes-full
Email of the Presenting Author: 
prmtmajumdar@gmail.com
Gender: 
Female
Mobile number of the Presenting Author: 
9330683095
Address & Pincode of the Presenting Author: 
Govandi, 400088
Evaluation Status: 
No
Back to Top