Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD) is also known as Menstrual Health Day which is an annual awareness day celebrated on May 28 every year. the day is particularly celebrated to highlight the importance of a good menstrual hygiene management.

The day was initiated by the German-based non-governmental organization (NGO) WASH United in 2014 with a goal to benefit women and girls worldwide.

The idea of choosing the 28th day as to acknowledge that 28 days is the average length of the menstrual cycle of women.

Generally, in low-income countries, girls’ choices of menstrual hygiene materials are often limited by the costs, social norms, and availability.

Sufficient sanitation facilities and access to several menstrual hygiene products are one part of the solution.

The day also aims to create a culture that welcomes conversation and makes adequate education for girls is of equal importance.

Several studies have also found that not having much knowledge about the menstrual hygiene management products, can keep girls home from school during their period each month.

The Menstrual Hygiene Day generates an occasion for publicizing information in the media as well as the social media.

Several public information campaigns can also help in, for engaging decision-makers in policy dialogue. The day offers an opportunity to actively support the integration of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) into global, national and local policies and programmes.

What Is The History of Menstrual Hygiene Day?

The Menstrual Hygiene Day was launched in 2014 by the German non-governmental organization WASH United. The day was created to normalize the effect of menstruation and the importance of access to hygiene during this period with the support of more than 270 global partners.

Interestingly, May 28th was chosen for the fifth time per year: most women have an average duration of 5 days and their cycle usually lasts 28 days. In a way, May 28 is particularly symbolic!

Today, the day ensures that awareness of women’s access to menstrual hygiene is increasing worldwide. It is a fundamental human right that women around the world receive the right materials to collect blood during this time and that this material can be exchanged in complete privacy.

The organizers of this day also say that good washing facilities are being given to women at the moment and that young women have given the right educational materials about the changes that will occur in their bodies.

Menstruation is a biological fact, and this day aims to make sure that any form of stigma is exposed and that girls learn that it is natural and that there is no reason to be ashamed.

How to Celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day?

In some parts of the world, the simple act of menstruation is a shame. They can donate to various charities to provide schools with the right information and to ensure that women in these places receive the support they need.

In this same way, you can also provide help to a needy person, you can also spread awareness regarding the day.