Problem Addressed

Menstruation is a subject surrounded by silence in India. Often taboos, myths and superstitions associated with it cause much damage to the rights, respect and dignity of women, leading to various forms of violence against them. Disposable pads available in the market are soaked in chemicals and plastic causing much harm to the body and the environment. Most times women are unable to make healthy choices to manage their menstruation due to lack of availability of options. Further, there is an issue with the dignity and safety of the people who manage such waste. They are often looked down upon and have major health threats when dealing with waste such as disposable sanitary napkins, which are often the cause for blocked sewage in drains.

Innovative Approach

Jatan Sansthan’s Uger menstrual pads program introduces sustainability to menstrual hygiene management, an issue that is being dominated by harmful disposable products in India and elsewhere around the world. The eco-friendly, cotton, reusable, washable and handmade menstrual pads are an innovative option for the environment, the community, and the women who stitch them.

Uger Pads

Program Solution

Uger, which means ‘New beginning’ in the Mewari language, is about women’s empowerment and health choices. Uger works on breaking the silence, myths and taboos of menstrual hygiene through its awareness campaigns and educational sessions. Uger also advocates inclusion of men in the discussion and creating infrastructure to value and accommodate women’s needs.

The Uger pads offer women a healthy and eco friendly option to manage their period safely. These pads can be created at home and thus can be useful in rural and urban settings alike. Promotion of these pads promotes health and hygiene while at the same time protecting the rights of waste managers. Uger’s ongoing research component helps program staff review and make better decisions about this work on a regular basis.