Over the past 30 years, Whisper has been driving menstrual education and hygiene management in India, educating over 10 crore girls and mothers.
However, 7 out of 10 mothers do not fully understand the science of periods and find it 'dirty or impure'. To address this issue, P&G Whisper and UNESCO India joined forces with the Gender Equality and Integrated Holistic Health Working Groups of C20 India at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham's Campus in Ettimadai, Coimbatore, with the support of OMNEX to raise awareness among women, including young girls attending school.
The launch of five teaching-learning modules, titled "Spotlight Red," aims to enhance understanding and skills related to menstruation management while fostering awareness about its societal impact.
The modules aim to empower adolescents from diverse backgrounds, including girls with disabilities, by providing them with access to period and puberty education.
A National Survey and Gap Analysis report on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management under the #Keep Girls in School campaign revealed that 50% of adolescent girls (aged 15 to 19) lack access to hygienic methods for managing their periods.
Distinguished guests at the event included chief guest Dr. M Raveendran, MD, Dean of Govt Medical College & ESI hospital, Coimbatore, Ms Varsha Rawat, Brand Director of Whisper, P&G India, Dr. Huma Masood, Senior Gender Specialist, UNESCO India, Dr. Sudha Ramalingam, HOD, PSG IMSR, Department of Community Medicine, Coimbatore, (Air Cmde).
During the event, UNESCO showcased a comprehensive survey and gap analysis report, accompanied by a series of short films that effectively portrayed different dimensions of Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management.
To further break down barriers and eliminate stigma surrounding periods, an empowering "Pride of Period Anthem" was presented, fostering a more promising and inclusive future for all individuals who menstruate.