As per the definition of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) adapted from UNICEF and the World Health Organization in 2013, Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) involves -

Using clean menstrual management materials (period products) to absorb or collect menstrual blood

Which can be changed in private as often as necessary during a menstrual period

Using soap and water for washing the body as required

And having access to facilities to dispose of used menstrual management materials

The concept of menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) includes MHM as well as the factors that link periods with human rights and well-being.

How UNESCO Describes MHHM

The term MHHM (Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management) means to understand menstruation, how it can be managed, its impact on the health and rights of menstruators, and the broader societal factors that affect how menstruation is experienced. MHHM includes MHM and MHH.

Accurate and timely knowledge

Available, safe, and affordable materials

Informed and comfortable professionals

Referral and access to health services

Sanitation and washing facilities

Positive social norms

Accurate and timely knowledge

Safe and hygienic disposal

Advocacy and policy

MHHM and Education

Schools should organize games and activities to counter misconceptions.

Education Awareness through advertising can play a crucial role in encouraging the use of sanitary pads.

ASHA workers could train peer educators. These would be girls trained to impart information on MHHM and spearhead the message of safe periods.

Menstrual health education should be provided to all genders.

Schools should organize systematic interactive sessions and workshops.

School teachers should receive mandatory pre-service training on MHHM.

School teachers should be regularly assessed on MHHM.

A renewed focus on sensitizing male teachers and students on MHHM is necessary.

Any intervention on improving MHHM in schools must focus on the provision and easy availability of MHHM related eduction materials like modules, booklets, flip chart, etc.

What is Menstrual Health & Hygiene Management (MHHM)?

How UNESCO Describes MHHM

Accurate and timely knowledge

Available, safe, and affordable materials

Informed and comfortable professionals

Referral and access to health services

Sanitation and washing facilities

Positive social norms

Accurate and timely knowledge

Accurate and timely knowledge

Safe and hygienic disposal

Advocacy and policy

MHHM and Education

-Sharma et. al. 2020

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