KARACHI:
Imagine not being able to afford something that is a necessity for the female body. Many women and girls still face issues regarding the availability and cost of sanitary pads. National health surveys reveal that nearly 79% of women in Pakistan suffer from poor menstrual hygiene management due to unaffordability or a lack of resources.
Sanitary pads are a necessity, not a luxury. Navigating periods is particularly difficult for women and girls from low-income households or those living in areas with limited availability. A basic single pack of quality sanitary pads costs between Rs250 and Rs500 — a recurring monthly expense that represents 5% to 10% of the household income for families living on daily wages.
The government must take practical steps to make sanitary pads free and easily accessible in public schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, community health centres and public washrooms. They should be distributed specifically in underserved areas, as studies indicate that inadequate access to products and privacy causes up to 80% of school-going girls in Pakistan to miss classes or drop out altogether during their cycles.
Making menstrual products free is only the first step; ensuring they are readily available is equally important. A product that is free but difficult to find does not solve the problem. Menstruation is a natural biological process, and managing it safely should never depend on a person’s income or location. Access to menstrual hygiene products supports women’s health, girls’ education and equal participation in society.
Iman Mustafa
Karachi
