May 28, 2025 — Menstrual Hygiene Day (MH Day) is being marked across the globe with a continued focus on the long-term vision: “Together for a PeriodFriendlyWorld.” This theme is not just a slogan for 2025, but a unified call for collective action that has been adopted to drive lasting change in menstrual health and hygiene worldwide.
What Does a PeriodFriendlyWorld Mean?
A PeriodFriendlyWorld is one where menstruation is treated as a normal and healthy part of life — without shame, stigma, or silence. In such a world, everyone has access to the information, products, and facilities they need to manage their periods safely and with dignity. It’s also a world where discussions about menstruation are open, inclusive, and informed.
Why Menstrual Hygiene Still Matters
Despite growing awareness, millions of people — especially in low-income and rural areas — still face major challenges during menstruation. Lack of access to menstrual products, inadequate sanitation facilities, and limited education continue to affect health, school attendance, and even job opportunities. The problem is worsened by cultural taboos and the fact that many girls face their first period without any understanding of what is happening to their bodies.
Key Areas of Focus
To truly build a period-friendly world, change is needed in several key areas:
- Education: Schools and communities must provide accurate, age-appropriate information about menstruation for all genders.
- Access to Products: Menstrual pads, cups, and other hygiene products should be affordable, sustainable, and available to everyone.
- Sanitation and Infrastructure: Clean toilets, running water, and safe disposal methods are essential in both schools and public places.
- Health Services: Menstrual health needs to be part of broader healthcare discussions and services.
- Social Attitudes: Most importantly, society needs to break the silence and eliminate the stigma surrounding menstruation.
Global Efforts and Local Impact
Around the world, governments, NGOs, schools, and healthcare providers are using MH Day to host events, run campaigns, and launch new initiatives. In India, for example, awareness programs in cities like Varanasi and Patna are educating young people on menstrual hygiene and linking it to wider health topics like cervical cancer prevention.
How You Can Get Involved
Everyone has a role to play in creating a PeriodFriendlyWorld. You can:
- Educate others about menstrual health and hygiene.
- Speak up to challenge stereotypes and misinformation.
- Support initiatives and organizations working on menstrual health.
- Use your voice online, through hashtags like #MHDay2025 and #PeriodFriendlyWorld to raise awareness.
Final Thoughts
Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025 is more than just a date — it’s a movement. By working together, we can ensure that no one is held back by something as natural as a period. A PeriodFriendlyWorld is not just possible — it’s necessary, and it starts with all of us.