Experts in India are calling for a collective effort to ensure menstrual dignity for all, particularly girls and women. Speaking at the Menstrual Health and Hygiene Conclave 2026, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Chairperson Babita Patra emphasized that society must create an environment where individuals can speak openly about menstrual health with confidence and dignity.
Patra noted that no girl or woman should feel excluded, embarrassed, or unsafe due to menstruation, and that a compassionate and informed society is the foundation of menstrual dignity. She also highlighted the importance of involving boys and men in conversations around menstruation to dismantle stigma and build a more equal and dignified society.
Additional Director General of Police Shyni S stressed that ensuring access to safe water, clean toilets, and sanitary pads is not a luxury, but a basic necessity for women and girls to manage their menstrual cycles with safety, comfort, and dignity.
Speakers at the conclave also emphasized the need to break harmful taboos and discriminatory practices surrounding menstruation, and to create safe and period-friendly spaces in schools, hostels, anganwadi centers, and healthcare institutions.
Experts noted that menstrual health is closely linked to healthcare, safety, equality, self-respect, and human dignity, and that collective efforts are necessary to break stigma and promote menstrual dignity.
