Menstruation and menstruating is a sign of a women’s reproductive body but the other side of it is a transition which makes every women question ‘why me? ‘. My interest in the subject led me to take it up as a project under the healthcare domain. Although not sure about my focus area in the beginning, the study helped me to concentrate on one direction- Menstrual protection for women in Rural and Slum area. I focused on Designing a Low cost Menstrual protection.

According to the collected data and experts, most women in India, roughly 70% of them still use cloth during their periods. Undoubtedly the first thought was to introduce a low cost disposable sanitary napkin. The fact that women still use cloth ridiculed me in the beginning, justified itself at every point of my study. Introducing cheap disposable sanitary napkins felt like a very superficial approach to the problem. It was important to understand what will be accepted socially, monetarily and also environmentally. A holistic approach had to be kept in mind while working on this sensitive subject was very important.

The study also involved understanding a good sanitary napkin. What are the good design features and what can be adopted or not adopted. The cost factor played a very important role in the whole design approach.

Different organisations and individuals around the world are working on similar issues but with an unbelievable understanding of the scenario. Periods is still a subject of shame, an uncomfortable topic. Efforts are taken in all direction but acceptability is the first agenda.

Case Study Download:
• Sakhi - Menstrual Kit for Rural and Slum Sector - Pdf