A session on Menstrual Hygiene Management was organised on September 29, 2022 at Women’s Study Centre of CMS College, Kottayam in collaboration with Innerwheel Club Kottayam North. The session was led by Dr. Divya Ramalingam (Gynaecologist, Carithas Hospital, Kottayam). More than 100 students ( 1st year) took part in the session.
After the talk on Menstrual Hygiene Management, SMC Programme Manager, Ms. Ann Maria Sabu (Education for Good Foundation) introduced and explained about the My Period, My Pride course and Sustainable Menstrual Care Initiative to the students.
The program commenced at 2.30 pm at Rev. Joseph Fenn Hall. The dignitaries who took part in the program included Dr. Renu Jacob (College Vice Principal), Dr. Sumi Mary Thomas (Women Study Centre Director), Mrs. Anjana Aravindan and Mrs. Mini Cherian ( Inner wheel Club Kottayam North representatives).
The main purpose of the programme was to provide adequate information and awareness on Menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene Management. Some of the topics discussed during the session includes the basics of Female Reproductive System, Menstruation and Menstrual hygiene management, Myths around menstruation, Menstrual products – Single use and Re-usable, Harmful Impacts of Single-use menstrual products and benefits of using Reusable Menstrual products. Guidance was provided on how to use different kinds of Reusable menstrual products like Menstrual Cup,Cloth pads and Period Panties
Participants enthusiastically attended the session, and asked queries and doubts to the doctor. Students raised queries regarding the safety of Hymen while using menstrual cups, misconceptions regarding menstrual cups, sterilisation of reusable menstrual products and also on how comfortable it is to use cloth pads during menstrual days.
The doctor explained about the myths and misconceptions on using menstrual cups that exist in our society even today. Students were made aware about the safety of using menstrual cups. The potential dangers of using single use menstrual products was also explained.
The session was highly informative and also helped to provide adequate awareness to students on menstruation. It also helped to clarify myths and misconceptions around menstruation.
Finally the session was concluded with a vote of thanks from the student representative.