Global Challenge: Approximately 1.8 billion individuals worldwide menstruate, with many facing challenges in managing their menstrual cycle in a dignified and healthy manner. Factors such as gender inequality, discriminatory social norms, cultural taboos, poverty, and lack of basic services contribute to unmet menstrual health and hygiene needs.

Impact on Adolescents: The onset of menstruation introduces new vulnerabilities for adolescents, with many facing stigma, harassment, and social exclusion during menstruation. This can lead to restricted mobility, compromised safety, decreased school attendance, and limited participation in community life, particularly affecting those in humanitarian crises.

Importance of Interventions: Menstrual health and hygiene interventions play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges by meeting the demand for menstrual hygiene products, protecting dignity, building confidence, and enhancing sexual and reproductive health, especially among adolescents.