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Abstract

The issue of menstrual health management (MHM) is a significant concern that has garnered attention from menstrual activists due to its profound impact on the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of menstruators. This study delves into how menstruators navigate their SRH in India by examining how they adhere to traditional menstrual practices to uphold concealment norms and the politics of social respectability. The aim of the study was to analyze menstrual practices, explore the socio-cultural factors shaping the choice of menstrual products, and assess awareness regarding the toxicity of disposable menstrual products. The findings indicate that a product-centric approach to menstrual management contributes to negative menstrual narratives, thus reinforcing self-surveillance and a sense of detachment from one’s own body. The study advocates for dispelling the notion of menstrual blood impurity perpetuated by the menstrual product industry and instead encourages the acceptance of reusable menstrual products as a means to promote both a healthy sense of self and contribute to a sustainable future.

Author Biography

Dr. Shahida is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at the National Institute of Technology Kurukshetra, India. She brings nearly a decade of teaching experience to her role, where she instructs undergraduate students and mentors research scholars. Her scholarly expertise lies in Gender Studies, and Postcolonial Studies. She has made significant contributions to these fields, with insightful research articles published in prestigious journals. For inquiries, she can be reached via email at shahida@nitkkr.ac.in.

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