Over 90% of Indian Women Advocate for Sanitary Pads in Public Washrooms

A new survey shows that more than 92% of women in India believe sanitary pads should be recognized as a crucial item in public washrooms. The absence of such menstrual hygiene provisions is perceived to undermine women's dignity and public inclusion, the survey reveals.

Conducted by Everteen, a feminine hygiene company, this eleventh annual study included responses from over 2,100 women across various states and Union Territories, mainly in the 19-35 age bracket. The results indicate a strong majority view that public washrooms should prioritize sanitary pads at the same level as urinals and hand dryers.

The survey additionally highlights societal discomfort with menstruation; about 86% of participants linked the lack of available sanitary pads to broader societal issues. Moreover, 87% of respondents insisted on the necessity for these products to be readily available in all public venues, particularly schools, suggesting legal mandates to enforce this provision.

Further, the study mentions a significant Supreme Court ruling that categorizes menstrual health as a fundamental right, urging government intervention to distribute free sanitary pads, particularly via vending machines in schools. These findings echo the urgent call for widespread menstrual health education, as 35% of women admitted minimal prior knowledge of menstruation.

(With inputs from agencies.)