There is a silent crisis happening in Kerala, a state known so much for progressive healthcare and literacy rates. Working women from different corners of this place are bearing a growing
menace of vaginal infections due to improper menstrual waste disposal.As per the recent survey on the matter, the lack of menstrual hygiene facilities for women in workplaces, as well as inefficient waste disposal systems, are compromising women’s health. That calls for immediate awareness and systemic change.
The Hidden Toll of Poor Menstrual Waste Management
Across Kerala, improper waste management of menstrual products is becoming a critical public health concern. Women in corporate offices, schools, and even government workplaces often find themselves with no safe, clean, or discreet way to dispose of sanitary pads or tampons. This leads to the unsafe practice of storing used pads in bags, desk drawers, or even toilets, significantly increasing the risk of vaginal infections and other complications.
A recent report sheds light on how the impact of improper menstrual waste disposal is not just environmental but directly tied to the rising cases of urinary and reproductive tract infections. The situation is exacerbated by the lack of dedicated bins, sanitary pad incinerators, and awareness among employers about menstrual hygiene.
Women’s Health Issues in Kerala: A Worsening Picture
Kerala, known for its literacy and health indicators, is now facing the irony of neglect in women’s health issues. The state has no dearth of educated women, but even educated working professionals struggle with menstrual hygiene challenges due to systemic gaps. This includes the absence of study on menstrual hygiene in Kerala workplaces and a lack of policy focus.
Moreover, social stigma prevents many women from voicing their concerns about hygiene or demanding better facilities, further perpetuating the problem.
Urgent Need for Awareness and Infrastructure
Creating menstrual hygiene awareness in India, especially in Kerala, must be prioritized. Workplaces should be mandated to install proper disposal bins, promote biodegradable sanitary options, and ensure regular cleaning. The challenges women face during menstruation in India are not merely personal inconveniences—they are serious health and human rights issues.
Employers and policymakers must also be educated about the connection between menstrual waste mismanagement and health issues to foster a safer and more inclusive work environment for women.
Conclusion
The rise in infections among Kerala’s working women due to improper menstrual waste disposal is a wake-up call. While the state has made strides in healthcare and education, menstrual hygiene remains a neglected frontier. By breaking the silence, advocating for better facilities, and adopting sustainable practices, we can safeguard women’s health and the environment. The time to act is now—because no woman should have to choose between her health and her dignity.
Reference
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