Period poverty, the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and adequate sanitation facilities, is a pervasive issue affecting women and girls in Bangladesh. This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the challenges associated with period poverty in the country and provides evidence-based recommendations for stakeholders at the macro and meso levels.

At the macro level, education emerges as a crucial strategy for combating period poverty. Integrating menstrual hygiene management (MHM) education into schools is identified as a powerful tool for transforming behaviors, values, and expectations among adolescents. Engaging men and boys in MHM discussions is also highlighted as pivotal for driving systemic change in the community. Flexible, long-term funding is emphasized to support adaptive and sustainable programming, along with budgeting considerations for subsidizing menstrual products and creating viable public sanitation facilities.

Strategic partnerships and advocacy are crucial for addressing period poverty. Bilateral and multilateral dialogues involving government officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil-society organizations (CSOs), human rights bodies, and service providers are recommended to consolidate knowledge, drive policy coordination, and improve bottom-up programs targeting period poverty. Media outlets and influential public-facing organizations are encouraged to foster dialogue and raise awareness on gender inequality and period poverty, leveraging their platforms to affect behavioral change and challenge cultural norms.

Recognizing the importance of grassroots efforts, the report highlights the need to consult and engage civil society and community-based practitioners who have an intimate understanding of local needs. Increased participation of women and girls in high-visibility spaces and events is advocated to enhance agency and nudge others to advocate for their rights. A holistic approach is stressed, focusing not only on affordable menstrual products but also on broader public health and sanitation challenges. This includes: ensuring access to clean water, establishing safe disposal facilities, and providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education.

At the meso level, the report focuses on a case study illustrating the Menstrual Hygiene without Borders project. This initiative, implemented by a cohort of public health students in collaboration with a local partner organization called Wreetu, aimed to provide MHM education, distribute menstrual hygiene kits, and foster awareness in targeted communities. The project showcased the importance of culturally appropriate methods, engaging stakeholders, and leveraging fundraising efforts through social media platforms.

Primary research findings from the project underscore the significance of income, education, and awareness in addressing period poverty. The study identified positive associations between household income and the use of menstrual products, highlighting the need for affordable options for marginalized communities. The importance of MHM education in schools was also underscored, as it correlated with greater awareness of menstruation among students. Additionally, the study examined access to water, sanitation, remedies for menstrual pain, and the presence of cultural stigma surrounding menstruation.

In conclusion, this report provides a comprehensive framework for addressing period poverty in Bangladesh. By implementing the recommended strategies at the macro and meso levels, stakeholders can work towards achieving equity in menstrual hygiene, empowering women and girls, and creating a society that embraces menstruation as a natural and dignified aspect of life. It is our hope that this report serves as a catalyst for change and fosters collaborative efforts to eradicate period poverty in Bangladesh and beyond.