Background

Whilst science shows that menstruation is an essential healthy bodily function, its practice and societal perceptions are often entangled in stigma and taboo, posing challenges across various communities. UEL professor Meera Tiwari found that there is a lack of respect and dignity experienced by girls and women across the UK, India, and Nepal. A 2021 report by Plan International found that nearly two million girls (64%) aged 14 – 21 in the UK have missed a part day or full day of school at least once a month due to the stigma and shame surrounding menstruation. In India, a meta-analysis of 138 studies involving 97,070 girls across India revealed that one in 4 girls aged 10 – 19 miss school due to the fear of leaking onto their uniform, a lack of changing rooms, and the unavailability of water and cleaning facilities (Times of India, 2023). These studies show the connection of good menstrual health with achieving gender equality and shows the massive impact menstrual health has across education, health, well-being, and sport, and societal participation. The right of menstruators to manage their periods with dignity is yet to be fully achieved across the globe (Plan International, 2018).

Objective

Dr Meera Tiwari’s research further captures these societal norms and challenges experienced by menstruators and offers a framework of dignity to improve menstrual health outcomes. The main objective is to reduce school absences amongst girls and to promote the well-being of the woman and the family. Furthermore, this research highlights that menstrual health is a societal concern, and it is essential for boys and men to be part of this conversation.

Approach

The research method used in the exploration of the role of dignity in improving menstrual health outcomes in rural Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India was a mixed method including both surveys and interactive street theatre which were used to understand perceptions and practices related to menstrual health (MH). Men were initially reluctant to participate, viewing MH as a women's issue. To engage them, key findings were dramatised in village squares to capture observational data and reactions. This innovative use of theatre facilitated the communication of research findings and societal aspirations, revealing that while 83% of men knew menstruation was linked to childbirth, significant misconceptions persisted (Tiwari, 2022).

Outcome

The impact of Dr Meer Tiwari’s research is underscored by its direct influence on policy and practice. This research led to the creation of the Dignified Indicators Menstrual Health (DI-IMH) framework. Three organisations have already incorporated the findings from the research to reform their approaches to menstrual health, demonstrating the practical applicability and effectiveness of our research. Operating in diverse cultural and social contexts, these organisations have used the DI-IMH framework to develop more dignity-centred and inclusive menstrual health practices. This not only validates the relevance of the research but also exemplifies its potential for widespread application. This framework provides UEL’s local borough of Newham with an opportunity to progress gender equality, public health, and workforce productivity and supports workplace inclusivity and community engagement.  

The research’s impact extends beyond these organisations. It stimulates broader societal change by encouraging open discussions about menstruation, challenging taboos, and promoting gender inclusivity in addressing menstrual health. By involving boys and men in these conversations, the research acknowledges menstrual health as a societal concern, not just a women's issue. This inclusive approach is crucial for fostering understanding and support across genders, leading to more empathetic and effective menstrual health policies and practices.

Conclusion

This research stands at the forefront of menstrual health studies, as it confronts the critical issue of aligning scientific understanding with societal practices and norms regarding menstruation. This innovative approach is significant as it goes beyond the traditional scope of health research, delving into the complex interplay of cultural, social, and health factors. By highlighting the discrepancies between menstrual science and the societal taboos and stigma that surround it, Meera’s work challenges deeply ingrained perceptions and pave the way for a more inclusive and scientifically informed approach to menstrual health.