WHO Elevates Menstrual Health to Global Health Agenda

The World Health Organization (WHO) and its Human Reproduction Programme (HRP) are making significant strides in placing menstrual health on the global health agenda, driven by research that incorporates the needs and requests of adolescents.

"Thanks to the dedicated and ongoing work of WHO and partners, this Menstrual Hygiene Day we are celebrating progress toward a response from the health sector that meets adolescents’ need for information and services," said Dr. Venkatraman Chandra Mouli, Scientist at HRP and WHO. "WHO remains committed to supporting a strong health sector response to the wide-ranging issues that menstruation brings."

In March 2023, WHO and HRP committed, in partnership with several UN agencies and academic institutions, to advocate for countries to integrate promotive, preventive, and curative health services, along with adequate water and sanitation access, into their national universal health coverage policies.

Research indicates that adolescent girls often face a lack of information and preparedness regarding menstruation, leading to feelings of shame and misconceptions that can hinder education and confidence. To address this, WHO's strategy focuses on five key actions: educating girls, normalizing menstruation, improving access to sanitary products and facilities, enhancing family support, and ensuring access to knowledgeable healthcare providers.

To support these efforts, HRP and WHO have developed desk reference tools for healthcare workers to provide effective and empathetic care for adolescents and their caregivers. Additionally, menstrual health education, emphasizing menstruation as a normal part of physical development, has been integrated into the International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education.