Supplying flood shelters with sanitary napkins and other related facilities

Millions of people are leading an inhuman life in flood-hit Sunamganj, Sylhet, Kurigram and many other areas. They are badly in need of food and pure drinking water. In this situation, one of the most important issues, however, is hardly discussed. And that is menstrual hygiene management. Post-disaster relief and recovery operations seldom focus on women's priorities regarding menstrual hygiene. Women and adolescents girls are the worst sufferers due to floods, and the problem of menstrual hygiene management amplifies their miseries.

Managing period in a crowded flood relief camp without non-segregated toilets and without any sanitary napkin is extremely problematic. In such a situation, the victims cannot tell anyone that they need sanitary napkins or clean cloth to absorb their flow due to social taboos around menstrual health. Sanitary napkins are one of the most important supplies to take care of menstrual hygiene. A packet of sanitary napkins during these difficult times can be a real blessing for the menstruating girls and women.

Menstrual hygiene is a silent need during disasters. Access to appropriate menstrual hygiene materials, washing and drying, and menstrual hygiene infrastructure including water, sanitation, changing areas and waste disposal options are a must in shelter centres. The authorities concerned should include packets of sanitary napkins among their relief items on a priority basis.

Samia Jahan Shefa,

shefasamia8@gmail.com