May 28 marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day — a global initiative focused on breaking stigma, spreading awareness, and improving menstrual health for women and girls worldwide.

With growing awareness and digital health tools, tracking menstrual cycles, symptoms, ovulation, mood changes, and overall reproductive health has become easier and more accessible than ever before.

From period tracking apps to smart health insights, technology is helping women better understand their bodies, detect irregularities early, and manage menstrual wellness with confidence.


May 28 Is World Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tracking Menstrual Health Gets Easy 

Have males ever imagined experiencing menstrual cramps? In Tokyo, some Japanese male office employees from a telecommunication company had a unique opportunity to undergo the sensation of menstrual pain using a device.

Braving the experience, several workers from the EXEO Group tested Perionoid, a compact device with an adhesive pad applied to the lower abdomen. With a simple push of a button, an electrical signal mimics the sensation of pain in the lower stomach muscles.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/8-countries-that-provide-menstrual-leaves-1702624815490" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/8-countries-that-provide-menstrual-leaves-1702624815490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIgISSt-KEAxVZslYBHYwWA1wQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2yRco1OvnTQLICIrJ9PmFN" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/8-countries-that-provide-menstrual-leaves-1702624815490" target="_blank">8 Countries That Provide&nbsp;Menstrual&nbsp;Leaves</a>

During the session, employee Masaya Shibasaki found himself nearly on his knees, while others expressed surprise at the level of discomfort that women endure on a monthly basis.

The event, held by the company on Thursday (March 7), preceded International Women's Day on March 8.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-popping-meftal-spas-for-menstrual-cramps-safe-medical-experts-answer-668854" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-popping-meftal-spas-for-menstrual-cramps-safe-medical-experts-answer-668854&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjXscS2t-KEAxU_d2wGHd9XAisQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3visPEgdrx7RTrskNtcy_i" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-popping-meftal-spas-for-menstrual-cramps-safe-medical-experts-answer-668854" target="_blank">Is popping Meftal spas for menstrual cramps safe?&nbsp;</a>

“We hope those who experienced menstrual pain today go back to their workplace and speak about how they felt and spread their understanding for women. If they do that, we can change the environment where it's awkward for women to take time off. We can be a company where people are supportive of women that need to take days off," said an employee from EXEO Group.

The brainchild behind Perionoid is an unnamed female researcher from Nara Women's University who personally suffered from severe menstrual cramps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-_0-of-indian-women-face-menstrual-health-issues-india%E2%80%99s-largest-period-health-study-reveals-alarming-trends-636287" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-_0-of-indian-women-face-menstrual-health-issues-india%25E2%2580%2599s-largest-period-health-study-reveals-alarming-trends-636287&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIgISSt-KEAxVZslYBHYwWA1wQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-ojDr_FA_0992FOy1OevG" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-_0-of-indian-women-face-menstrual-health-issues-india%E2%80%99s-largest-period-health-study-reveals-alarming-trends-636287" target="_blank">70% of Indian women face&nbsp;menstrual&nbsp;health issues</a>

Collaboratively developed with researchers at the startup Osaka Heat Cool in 2019, the device has undergone several updates to reduce its size and enhance portability.

Since mid-2023, the startup has provided training sessions for employees at 40 companies and government officials.

Additionally, they have conducted basic sex education for younger individuals in schools, informs Chiaki Kubota, brand manager and trainer at Osaka Heat Cool.

"It's great we can train different companies with different backgrounds, workers with different age, both men and women. But we also want to provide basic sex education and teach the difference (between men and women) to younger people in schools. We hope to offer training in educational institutions to foster that kind of knowledge," added Chiaki Kubota.

(With inputs from agencies)

Have males ever imagined experiencing menstrual cramps? In Tokyo, some Japanese male office employees from a telecommunication company had a unique opportunity to undergo the sensation of menstrual pain using a device.

Have males ever imagined experiencing menstrual cramps? In Tokyo, some Japanese male office employees from a telecommunication company had a unique opportunity to undergo the sensation of menstrual pain using a device. Braving the experience, several workers from the EXEO Group tested Perionoid, a compact device with an adhesive pad applied to the lower abdomen. With a simple push of a button, an electrical signal mimics the sensation of pain in the lower stomach muscles. Also read: 8 Countries That Provide Menstrual Leaves During the session, employee Masaya Shibasaki found himself nearly on his knees, while others expressed surprise at the level of discomfort that women endure on a monthly basis. The event, held by the company on Thursday (March 7), preceded International Women's Day on March 8. Also read: Is popping Meftal spas for menstrual cramps safe? “We hope those who experienced menstrual pain today go back to their workplace and speak about how they felt and spread their understanding for women. If they do that, we can change the environment where it's awkward for women to take time off. We can be a company where people are supportive of women that need to take days off," said an employee from EXEO Group. The brainchild behind Perionoid is an unnamed female researcher from Nara Women's University who personally suffered from severe menstrual cramps. Also read: 70% of Indian women face menstrual health issues Collaboratively developed with researchers at the startup Osaka Heat Cool in 2019, the device has undergone several updates to reduce its size and enhance portability. Since mid-2023, the startup has provided training sessions for employees at 40 companies and government officials. Additionally, they have conducted basic sex education for younger individuals in schools, informs Chiaki Kubota, brand manager and trainer at Osaka Heat Cool. "It's great we can train different companies with different backgrounds, workers with different age, both men and women. But we also want to provide basic sex education and teach the difference (between men and women) to younger people in schools. We hope to offer training in educational institutions to foster that kind of knowledge," added Chiaki Kubota. (With inputs from agencies)

Men in Japan are complaining of menstrual pain, here’s what you need to know

The intricate hormonal fluctuations that regulate the menstrual cycle don't just affect the&nbsp; reproductive organs; they also shape the brain. A recent study led by neuroscientists Elizabeth Rizor and Viktoriya Babenko from the University of California Santa Barbara offers new insights into this process.

The <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.10.09.561616v1">study</a>, though awaiting peer review, is available on the preprint server bioRxiv and meticulously tracks structural brain changes during hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle.

The findings indicate that structural changes in the brain during menstruation go beyond regions typically associated with the menstrual cycle. According to the researchers, these results are the first to report concurrent changes in white matter microstructure and cortical thickness throughout the entire brain, coinciding with the hormonal variations of the menstrual cycle.

This suggests that the influence of hormones on the brain may extend to regions not traditionally associated with menstrual hormones.

With women&nbsp;who menstruate experiencing approximately 450 menstrual cycles in their lifetime, understanding the diverse effects of these hormonal changes on the body is crucial.

Surprisingly, research on this topic has been somewhat limited, considering that half of the world's population goes through this process for half of their lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-slowly-getting-caught-in-proliferating-skin-disfiguring-infection-649228">Also read |&nbsp;US slowly getting caught in proliferating skin-disfiguring infection?</a>

<h2>A gap in understanding</h2>

Research on the hormonal impact on the brain has primarily focused on brain communication during cognitive tasks rather than examining the structural changes in the brain itself. Hormonal fluctuations have been found to affect the microstructure of white matter, which plays a crucial role in transmitting information between grey matter regions. These shifts have been observed during various life stages, including puberty, oral contraceptive use, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and post-menopausal estrogen therapy.

To address this gap in knowledge, the research team conducted MRI scans of participants during three menstrual phases: menstruation, ovulation, and mid-luteal. Simultaneously, they measured the participants' hormone levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/epicentre-beyond-asia-deadly-bird-flu-outbreaks-migrated-to-europe-and-africa-finds-study-648978">Also read |&nbsp;‘Epicentre beyond Asia’: Deadly bird flu outbreaks ‘migrated’ to Europe and Africa, finds study</a>

The results revealed that as hormone levels fluctuate, both grey and white matter volumes in the brain, as well as the volume of cerebrospinal fluid, undergo changes. Notably, just before ovulation, when 17β-estradiol and luteinising hormone levels rise, white matter changes suggestive of faster information transfer were observed. Follicle-stimulating hormone, which surges before ovulation and assists in stimulating ovary follicles, was associated with thicker gray matter. In contrast, post-ovulation, when progesterone levels rise, the research linked this to increased tissue and decreased cerebrospinal fluid volume.

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The intricate hormonal fluctuations that regulate the menstrual cycle don't just affect the reproductive organs; they also shape the brain. A recent study led by neuroscientists Elizabeth Rizor and Viktoriya Babenko from the University of California Santa Barbara offers new insights into this process.

The intricate hormonal fluctuations that regulate the menstrual cycle don't just affect the reproductive organs; they also shape the brain. A recent study led by neuroscientists Elizabeth Rizor and Viktoriya Babenko from the University of California Santa Barbara offers new insights into this process. The study, though awaiting peer review, is available on the preprint server bioRxiv and meticulously tracks structural brain changes during hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. The findings indicate that structural changes in the brain during menstruation go beyond regions typically associated with the menstrual cycle. According to the researchers, these results are the first to report concurrent changes in white matter microstructure and cortical thickness throughout the entire brain, coinciding with the hormonal variations of the menstrual cycle. This suggests that the influence of hormones on the brain may extend to regions not traditionally associated with menstrual hormones. With women who menstruate experiencing approximately 450 menstrual cycles in their lifetime, understanding the diverse effects of these hormonal changes on the body is crucial. Surprisingly, research on this topic has been somewhat limited, considering that half of the world's population goes through this process for half of their lives. Also read | US slowly getting caught in proliferating skin-disfiguring infection? A gap in understanding Research on the hormonal impact on the brain has primarily focused on brain communication during cognitive tasks rather than examining the structural changes in the brain itself. Hormonal fluctuations have been found to affect the microstructure of white matter, which plays a crucial role in transmitting information between grey matter regions. These shifts have been observed during various life stages, including puberty, oral contraceptive use, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and post-menopausal estrogen therapy. To address this gap in knowledge, the research team conducted MRI scans of participants during three menstrual phases: menstruation, ovulation, and mid-luteal. Simultaneously, they measured the participants' hormone levels. Also read | ‘Epicentre beyond Asia’: Deadly bird flu outbreaks ‘migrated’ to Europe and Africa, finds study The results revealed that as hormone levels fluctuate, both grey and white matter volumes in the brain, as well as the volume of cerebrospinal fluid, undergo changes. Notably, just before ovulation, when 17β-estradiol and luteinising hormone levels rise, white matter changes suggestive of faster information transfer were observed. Follicle-stimulating hormone, which surges before ovulation and assists in stimulating ovary follicles, was associated with thicker gray matter. In contrast, post-ovulation, when progesterone levels rise, the research linked this to increased tissue and decreased cerebrospinal fluid volume. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says

In a world where we're shedding outdated taboos about menstruation and adopting more progressive attitudes, we're also welcoming innovative solutions that make that time of the month a bit easier. One such game-changer is period underwear. However, like many pioneering ideas, it has fallen victim to persistent myths that just won't disappear. But don't worry, it's time to separate fact from fiction and unveil the real story behind period underwear.

<h2>Myth #1 - They are not reusable</h2>

Traditional menstrual products like tampons or pads require frequent changes, which can be inconvenient and disruptive to daily activities. In today's world, we have access to some truly innovative period products that are crafted entirely from 100 per cent cloth. One of the standout features of period underwear is its long-lasting protection. These specially designed undergarments can be worn for up to 8 hours, giving you the freedom to go about your day without constant trips to the bathroom. No more worrying about changing tampons or pads every few hours!

With period underwear, you can enjoy the convenience of extended wear, knowing it provides reliable protection for an entire workday or night's sleep.

<h2>Myth #2 - They Leak and Create Stains</h2>

Can period underwear handle heavy flows without leaks or stains? This is one of the biggest concerns people have about trying these revolutionary products. The truth is that period underwear is designed to provide exceptional leak protection. It features multiple absorbent layers that trap moisture and prevent it from seeping through. This ensures that you stay dry and comfortable throughout the day.

The advanced technology behind period underwear ensures that even on your heaviest flow days, you won't have to worry about embarrassing leaks or unsightly stains on your clothing. This level of protection allows you to feel confident and secure during your period.

<h2>Myth #3: They need a pad to stick with it</h2>

One common misconception is the belief that period underwear requires a pad for added protection. This is a huge misunderstanding. Period underwear is specifically designed to be a standalone solution for managing menstrual flow. They feature multiple layers of absorbent fabric that wicks moisture away from the body, preventing leaks and providing a secure and comfortable experience. The need for an additional pad is entirely unnecessary when using high-quality period underwear.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-cannabis-medicines-role-in-womens-wellness--explained-637600">Cannabis medicine's role in women's wellness | Explained</a>

<h2>Myth #4: They are Unhygienic</h2>

Contrary to the belief, reputable brands treat period underwear with antibacterial properties which makes them more hygienic than the disposable plastic alternatives. These properties help to prevent the growth of bacteria and odours while ensuring that you can wear period underwear with confidence and comfort throughout your period.

<h2>Myth #5: They are not Designed for Comfort</h2>

Are period underwear just about functionality? Of course, they are! But add comfort and up goes your peace of mind. The high-waist design offers full coverage, so you can say goodbye to uncomfortable bunching or shifting during the day. You'll hardly even notice you're wearing them! The absence of uncomfortable materials or adhesive strips means you can move freely and comfortably, even during your period.

<h2>Myth #6: They are inconvenient to wash</h2>

Unlike disposable products that contribute to waste, period underwear is easy to care for. They are as simple to reuse as they can be rinsed with cold water to remove any excess blood and then tossed in the washing machine with your regular laundry. No need to worry about disposal or special cleaning routines. This is how straightforward the cleaning process is; something that doesn't require any special handling. This convenience adds to the overall appeal of period underwear as a practical and sustainable choice for managing your period.

(With inputs from&nbsp;Pallavi Utagi, CEO and Founder of SuperBottoms)

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In a world where we're shedding outdated taboos about menstruation and adopting more progressive attitudes, we're also welcoming innovative solutions that make that time of the month a bit easier.

In a world where we're shedding outdated taboos about menstruation and adopting more progressive attitudes, we're also welcoming innovative solutions that make that time of the month a bit easier. One such game-changer is period underwear. However, like many pioneering ideas, it has fallen victim to persistent myths that just won't disappear. But don't worry, it's time to separate fact from fiction and unveil the real story behind period underwear. Myth #1 - They are not reusable Traditional menstrual products like tampons or pads require frequent changes, which can be inconvenient and disruptive to daily activities. In today's world, we have access to some truly innovative period products that are crafted entirely from 100 per cent cloth. One of the standout features of period underwear is its long-lasting protection. These specially designed undergarments can be worn for up to 8 hours, giving you the freedom to go about your day without constant trips to the bathroom. No more worrying about changing tampons or pads every few hours! With period underwear, you can enjoy the convenience of extended wear, knowing it provides reliable protection for an entire workday or night's sleep. Myth #2 - They Leak and Create Stains Can period underwear handle heavy flows without leaks or stains? This is one of the biggest concerns people have about trying these revolutionary products. The truth is that period underwear is designed to provide exceptional leak protection. It features multiple absorbent layers that trap moisture and prevent it from seeping through. This ensures that you stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. The advanced technology behind period underwear ensures that even on your heaviest flow days, you won't have to worry about embarrassing leaks or unsightly stains on your clothing. This level of protection allows you to feel confident and secure during your period. Myth #3: They need a pad to stick with it One common misconception is the belief that period underwear requires a pad for added protection. This is a huge misunderstanding. Period underwear is specifically designed to be a standalone solution for managing menstrual flow. They feature multiple layers of absorbent fabric that wicks moisture away from the body, preventing leaks and providing a secure and comfortable experience. The need for an additional pad is entirely unnecessary when using high-quality period underwear. Also read: Cannabis medicine's role in women's wellness | Explained Myth #4: They are Unhygienic Contrary to the belief, reputable brands treat period underwear with antibacterial properties which makes them more hygienic than the disposable plastic alternatives. These properties help to prevent the growth of bacteria and odours while ensuring that you can wear period underwear with confidence and comfort throughout your period. Myth #5: They are not Designed for Comfort Are period underwear just about functionality? Of course, they are! But add comfort and up goes your peace of mind. The high-waist design offers full coverage, so you can say goodbye to uncomfortable bunching or shifting during the day. You'll hardly even notice you're wearing them! The absence of uncomfortable materials or adhesive strips means you can move freely and comfortably, even during your period. Myth #6: They are inconvenient to wash Unlike disposable products that contribute to waste, period underwear is easy to care for. They are as simple to reuse as they can be rinsed with cold water to remove any excess blood and then tossed in the washing machine with your regular laundry. No need to worry about disposal or special cleaning routines. This is how straightforward the cleaning process is; something that doesn't require any special handling. This convenience adds to the overall appeal of period underwear as a practical and sustainable choice for managing your period. (With inputs from Pallavi Utagi, CEO and Founder of SuperBottoms) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dispelling the myths: Facts about period underwear

Menstrual discs have emerged as a superior option for managing heavy menstrual flow, outperforming traditional pads and tampons, according to a recent study published in the BMJ Sexual &amp; Reproductive Health journal. The research sheds light on the potential of menstrual discs to provide effective relief for heavy monthly bleeding while also serving as an indicator for excessive blood loss.

The study's findings come as a game-changer in the field of menstrual hygiene, challenging prevailing norms and offering new avenues for improved menstrual care. With menstruation still largely shrouded in taboos and stigma, this research aims to shift perceptions and provide evidence-based solutions.

Conducted against the backdrop of a pervasive global issue, the study addresses the often-overlooked reality that 800 million women worldwide experience menstruation daily. This natural bodily process has long been underrepresented in medical research, resulting in a lack of understanding and innovative solutions for women's health.

Heavy menstrual bleeding affects up to 1 in 3 women and can signal underlying health conditions, such as bleeding disorders or fibroids. Traditionally, the Pictorial Blood Loss Assessment Chart (PBAC) has been used to gauge abnormal blood flow based on pads and tampons. However, alternative menstrual hygiene products like discs, cups, and absorbent pants have yet to be included in this assessment. This oversight prompted researchers to explore the absorbency capacity of these products using human red blood cells.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-it-safe-to-breastfeed-if-you-are-sick-doctor-answers-new-moms-most-pressing-question-623478">Is it safe to breastfeed if you are sick? Doctor answers new moms' most pressing question</a>

The study examined 21 commonly used menstrual hygiene products, revealing that menstrual discs exhibited the highest blood-holding capacity at an average of 61 ml, with a brand called Jiggy even holding a diagnostic amount of 80 ml, indicating excessive blood loss. On the other end of the spectrum, absorbent pants had the lowest capacity at an average of 2 ml, regardless of size.

One of the critical insights from the study was the discrepancy between reported and actual absorbent capacity, often due to testing with non-blood liquids like water or saline. The research emphasises the importance of aligning product testing with real-world conditions to provide accurate and relevant information for women's health.

"We also found that the product capacity labelling was discordant with our results—the majority of products reported that they had greater capacity than our testing found. We suspect this is due to product testing with non-blood liquids, such as water or saline," the researchers noted.

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Menstrual discs have emerged as a superior option for managing heavy menstrual flow, outperforming traditional pads and tampons, according to a recent study published in the BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health journal.

Menstrual discs have emerged as a superior option for managing heavy menstrual flow, outperforming traditional pads and tampons, according to a recent study published in the BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health journal. The research sheds light on the potential of menstrual discs to provide effective relief for heavy monthly bleeding while also serving as an indicator for excessive blood loss. The study's findings come as a game-changer in the field of menstrual hygiene, challenging prevailing norms and offering new avenues for improved menstrual care. With menstruation still largely shrouded in taboos and stigma, this research aims to shift perceptions and provide evidence-based solutions. Conducted against the backdrop of a pervasive global issue, the study addresses the often-overlooked reality that 800 million women worldwide experience menstruation daily. This natural bodily process has long been underrepresented in medical research, resulting in a lack of understanding and innovative solutions for women's health. Heavy menstrual bleeding affects up to 1 in 3 women and can signal underlying health conditions, such as bleeding disorders or fibroids. Traditionally, the Pictorial Blood Loss Assessment Chart (PBAC) has been used to gauge abnormal blood flow based on pads and tampons. However, alternative menstrual hygiene products like discs, cups, and absorbent pants have yet to be included in this assessment. This oversight prompted researchers to explore the absorbency capacity of these products using human red blood cells. Also read: Is it safe to breastfeed if you are sick? Doctor answers new moms' most pressing question The study examined 21 commonly used menstrual hygiene products, revealing that menstrual discs exhibited the highest blood-holding capacity at an average of 61 ml, with a brand called Jiggy even holding a diagnostic amount of 80 ml, indicating excessive blood loss. On the other end of the spectrum, absorbent pants had the lowest capacity at an average of 2 ml, regardless of size. One of the critical insights from the study was the discrepancy between reported and actual absorbent capacity, often due to testing with non-blood liquids like water or saline. The research emphasises the importance of aligning product testing with real-world conditions to provide accurate and relevant information for women's health. "We also found that the product capacity labelling was discordant with our results—the majority of products reported that they had greater capacity than our testing found. We suspect this is due to product testing with non-blood liquids, such as water or saline," the researchers noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New study reveals menstrual discs are better than tampons, pads for heavy flow

In the border villages of North Kashmir's Kupwara district, close to the Line of Control, the Indian Army has started various initiatives to empower women in the area.

Dozens of women in the remote village of Dudi Macchil in the district, are being trained to make sanitary pads. The Indian Army and an NGO have set up a sanitary pad&nbsp;manufacturing unit there.&nbsp;These sanitary pads&nbsp;are fully&nbsp;biodegradable and are made on machines with simple technology which women can learn to operate very quickly.

''A comprehensive training was organised for women from the village who were trained in manufacturing pads&nbsp; as well as maintenance of the machines. Women actively took part in the training and started the production of sanitary pads successfully. These pads will be used by the schoolgirls from Government Higher Secondary School, Dudi and Army Goodwill School, Raghavan, '' said Brigadier Vinod Singh Negi, Indian Army, Maccchil.

The Indian Army and the NGO also installed sanitary pad&nbsp;vending machines and incinerators (a furnace for burning waste) in these schools. The women of the area will make a livelihood as per the daily production. This project will promote menstrual health awareness and hygiene in the region as well.&nbsp;

<img alt="pads" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0842c4b-5e4d-4fa8-8dbd-34b68a7fef54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pads.jpeg" />

Sanitary pads manufactured by women in Kupwara district, J&amp;K. Photo credits: Idrees Lone

Separately, the women were also given sewing machines as part of the skill development program. They will be trained in tailoring for which, raw material would be provided to them.&nbsp;

The women of this remote village are extremely happy and thankful for the setting up of the unit. '' Such initiatives will empower us and we will also be able to earn a livelihood. We are thankful to the Indian Army for such initiatives. The women living in the border areas require such initiatives immensely,'' said Zubina, a beneficiary.&nbsp;

The Indian Army plans to replicate the same initiatives in other villages of the bordering areas as well.&nbsp;

In the border villages of North Kashmir's Kupwara district, close to the Line of Control, the Indian Army has started various initiatives to empower women in the area.

In the border villages of North Kashmir's Kupwara district, close to the Line of Control, the Indian Army has started various initiatives to empower women in the area. Dozens of women in the remote village of Dudi Macchil in the district, are being trained to make sanitary pads. The Indian Army and an NGO have set up a sanitary pad manufacturing unit there. These sanitary pads are fully biodegradable and are made on machines with simple technology which women can learn to operate very quickly. ''A comprehensive training was organised for women from the village who were trained in manufacturing pads as well as maintenance of the machines. Women actively took part in the training and started the production of sanitary pads successfully. These pads will be used by the schoolgirls from Government Higher Secondary School, Dudi and Army Goodwill School, Raghavan, '' said Brigadier Vinod Singh Negi, Indian Army, Maccchil. The Indian Army and the NGO also installed sanitary pad vending machines and incinerators (a furnace for burning waste) in these schools. The women of the area will make a livelihood as per the daily production. This project will promote menstrual health awareness and hygiene in the region as well. Sanitary pads manufactured by women in Kupwara district, J&K. Photo credits: Idrees Lone Separately, the women were also given sewing machines as part of the skill development program. They will be trained in tailoring for which, raw material would be provided to them. The women of this remote village are extremely happy and thankful for the setting up of the unit. '' Such initiatives will empower us and we will also be able to earn a livelihood. We are thankful to the Indian Army for such initiatives. The women living in the border areas require such initiatives immensely,'' said Zubina, a beneficiary. The Indian Army plans to replicate the same initiatives in other villages of the bordering areas as well.

Indian Army’s women empowerment initiatives in the border villages of Kashmir

The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements,&nbsp;Indian media reports said citing local administration.

In a bid to increase work productivity and to avoid daily wage loss, they are getting hysterectomies which have long lasting adverse effects on their health and can lead to hormonal imbalance, calcium deficiency and constant body ache, among other things.

Women living in this district are mostly cane cutters who migrate to the sugar belt of western Maharashtra during the cane cutting season.

Since the husband and wife counted as one unit in the rigourous process of cane cutting, if either of the two takes a break for a day, the couple has to pay a fine of 500 Rupees (US$6.99) per day to the contractor for every break.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-accuses-us-of-performing-surgeries-on-women-without-consent-334497">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico accuses US of performing surgeries on women without consent</a>

Due to poverty, women get married early in the Beed district and remove their uterus after having two or three children.&nbsp;

Hysterectomy ensures that menstrual periods do not hinder work therefore 50 per cent of the women in the district have already undergone this procedure.

Given the skewed sex ratio, rampant sex determination, female foeticide, malnutrition and tradition of giving a disturbing name to girls, the state Women and Child Development Department has gone into mission mode to save girls in Beed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-uk-built-surgical-robot-has-completed-1000-surgeries-successfully-346898">Also read |&nbsp;This UK-built surgical robot has completed 1,000 surgeries successfully</a>

The department has developed and is implementing a people-centric awareness programme with the help of local civil society organisations.

Creating quality engagement with the community, and especially the women and girls, is the core driving factor in all these measures.

The district occupies an area of 10,693 km&nbsp;and has a population of 2,585,962 of which 17.91 per cent were urban.

Beed has been notorious for its discrimination against the girl child. From 2001 to 2011, child sex ratio (calculated as the number of girl per 1000 boys in the 0-6 year age group) dropped from 894 to 807.

Families that make ends meet solely by working as agricultural labour have an obvious preference for sons.

"We found that due to early marriage and repetitive child berths women in the area face several health issues including infections etc. and instead of getting the right treatment for such health issues, the women tend to go for hysterectomy to end the health issues once and for all,” said Dr. Neelam Gorhe, deputy speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements, Indian media reports said citing local administration.

The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements, Indian media reports said citing local administration. In a bid to increase work productivity and to avoid daily wage loss, they are getting hysterectomies which have long lasting adverse effects on their health and can lead to hormonal imbalance, calcium deficiency and constant body ache, among other things. Women living in this district are mostly cane cutters who migrate to the sugar belt of western Maharashtra during the cane cutting season. Since the husband and wife counted as one unit in the rigourous process of cane cutting, if either of the two takes a break for a day, the couple has to pay a fine of 500 Rupees (US$6.99) per day to the contractor for every break. Also read | Mexico accuses US of performing surgeries on women without consent Due to poverty, women get married early in the Beed district and remove their uterus after having two or three children. Hysterectomy ensures that menstrual periods do not hinder work therefore 50 per cent of the women in the district have already undergone this procedure. Given the skewed sex ratio, rampant sex determination, female foeticide, malnutrition and tradition of giving a disturbing name to girls, the state Women and Child Development Department has gone into mission mode to save girls in Beed. Also read | This UK-built surgical robot has completed 1,000 surgeries successfully The department has developed and is implementing a people-centric awareness programme with the help of local civil society organisations. Creating quality engagement with the community, and especially the women and girls, is the core driving factor in all these measures. The district occupies an area of 10,693 km and has a population of 2,585,962 of which 17.91 per cent were urban. Beed has been notorious for its discrimination against the girl child. From 2001 to 2011, child sex ratio (calculated as the number of girl per 1000 boys in the 0-6 year age group) dropped from 894 to 807. Families that make ends meet solely by working as agricultural labour have an obvious preference for sons. "We found that due to early marriage and repetitive child berths women in the area face several health issues including infections etc. and instead of getting the right treatment for such health issues, the women tend to go for hysterectomy to end the health issues once and for all,” said Dr. Neelam Gorhe, deputy speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Women in Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed

Chinese students have begun an initiative to install sanitary pad dispensers in toilets at universities across the country in an attempt to stop period shaming of young women.&nbsp;

In nearly 250 campuses "sanitary pad support boxes" have been set up post a social media campaign by an advocacy group named Stand By Her.&nbsp;

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"We are doing this in hopes of putting an end to period shaming and rejecting the stigma of menstruation," Wang Ping, a student at Minzu University in the southern province of Yunnan said as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-applauds-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-for-rising-to-challenges-of-security-law-covid-19-341236">China applauds Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for 'rising' to challenges of security law, COVID-19</a>

Wang with the help of nearly a dozen volunteers said that they have installed about 10 such boxes around the university.&nbsp;

"We are not avoiding talking about but facing it head-on," she said.&nbsp;

The program came in a country where menstrual health remains a taboo and is not given much attention by health authorities.&nbsp;

In the initial months of the coronavirus outbreak, female health professionals complained that they had been told sanitary products were not under the category of critical items and would not be provided to them.&nbsp;

A local NGO demonstrated to accumulate donations so that sanitary pads and period underwear can be given to female frontline health workers.

A debate over tough living conditions of women in China's rural regions and what is described as "period poverty" began after a screenshot of a pack of 100 unbranded pads on sale for 21.99 yuan (USD 3) spread across social media in August.&nbsp;

Chinese women students also said how they often feel embarrassed while buying these products.

Chinese students have begun an initiative to install sanitary pad dispensers in toilets at universities across the country in an attempt to stop period shaming of young women.

Chinese students have begun an initiative to install sanitary pad dispensers in toilets at universities across the country in an attempt to stop period shaming of young women. In nearly 250 campuses "sanitary pad support boxes" have been set up post a social media campaign by an advocacy group named Stand By Her. Also read | US removes shadowy group condemned by China from terror list "We are doing this in hopes of putting an end to period shaming and rejecting the stigma of menstruation," Wang Ping, a student at Minzu University in the southern province of Yunnan said as quoted by The Guardian. Also read | China applauds Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for 'rising' to challenges of security law, COVID-19 Wang with the help of nearly a dozen volunteers said that they have installed about 10 such boxes around the university. "We are not avoiding talking about but facing it head-on," she said. The program came in a country where menstrual health remains a taboo and is not given much attention by health authorities. In the initial months of the coronavirus outbreak, female health professionals complained that they had been told sanitary products were not under the category of critical items and would not be provided to them. A local NGO demonstrated to accumulate donations so that sanitary pads and period underwear can be given to female frontline health workers. A debate over tough living conditions of women in China's rural regions and what is described as "period poverty" began after a screenshot of a pack of 100 unbranded pads on sale for 21.99 yuan (USD 3) spread across social media in August. Chinese women students also said how they often feel embarrassed while buying these products.

China: 'Stand by her' group begins campaign to install sanitary pad dispensers for ending period shaming

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