An important event focusing on menstrual waste and its impact on health and the environment took place at St. Ann’s College for Women. The event, titled “Period. Planet. Power. – Eco Edition,” aimed to raise awareness about the health risks associated with traditional menstrual products, particularly those laden with plastic.
Dr. Manjula Anagani, a senior gynecologist and the initiative’s organizer, led discussions emphasizing that conventional sanitary pads contain a significant amount of plastic—equivalent to about four plastic bags per pad. Alarmingly, these products can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to ongoing environmental issues.
In India alone, over 100,000 tonnes of menstrual waste is generated annually. According to the speakers at the event, this waste poses not only environmental hazards but also health risks linked to the harmful effects of plastics in sanitary products.
Dr. Nabat Lakhani, founder of the NGO Marham, supported the “No Plastic on Private” campaign, highlighting the urgent need for eco-friendly and body-safe alternatives. “We are not just discussing periods; we are advocating for healthier, safer, and more sustainable choices,” Dr. Lakhani stated.
Participants expressed their concern regarding the increasing health issues observed in women, many of which are believed to be linked to the plastics found in sanitary products. The event encouraged the adoption of sustainable menstrual products as an essential step towards better health and environmental practices in India.
The gathering also included discussions about various eco-friendly alternatives available in the market, empowering women to make informed choices that could help reduce the impact of menstrual waste.
As the event concluded, it was clear that there is a growing movement towards prioritizing health and sustainability in menstruation practices, with hope for a future free from the harmful effects of plastic.
-Rashmi Kumari
