Addressing period poverty through sustainable solid waste management practices in the Indian Himalayas: A qualitative study
Background: Period poverty and inadequate menstrual hygiene management (MHM) significantly impact the lives of menstruating individuals globally, contributing to inequalities such as school absenteeism and reproductive health issues. Although initiatives have focused on improving access to menstrual...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
International Network for the Advancement of Medicine, Psychology, and Public Health (INAMPPH)
2025-10-01
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| Series: | Advances in Medicine, Psychology, and Public Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://ampphealthjournal-network.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AMPPH_2025_215_224.pdf |
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| Summary: | Background: Period poverty and inadequate menstrual hygiene management (MHM) significantly impact the lives of menstruating individuals globally, contributing to inequalities such as school absenteeism and reproductive health issues. Although initiatives have focused on improving access to menstrual products and education, the sustainability of menstrual waste management remains underexplored, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions like the high Himalayas.
Objectives: To investigate the current practices of menstrual product disposal in the Spiti Valley district of Lahaul and Spiti, India, and to implement sustainable interventions to address
improper waste management.
Methods: This study employed semi-structured interviews with 27 menstruating individuals from three villages in Spiti Valley, followed by a train-the-trainer educational program. Data were collected on prevalent disposal methods and interventions were introduced, including a waste segregation system and a compost pit for biodegradable menstrual products.
Results: The study found that common disposal methods included random dumping, shallow burying, and open pit burning, which pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Preliminary feedback indicated that the implemented interventions were well-received, but their long-term success depends on sustained community engagement and monitoring.
Conclusions: The findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable menstrual waste management practices in the high Himalayas. These practices align with multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and climate action. This study highlights the intersection of period poverty, sustainability, and public health
in a fragile ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of community involvement for long-term success. |
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| ISSN: | 3034-8803 |