Essity Initiates Dialogue for a More Equitable Society
Menstrual management in Mexico remains an urgent and underrepresented topic, with implications extending beyond individual health to affect the economy, education, and gender equality. Recent data indicates that 69% of menstruators in the country receive little to no information during their first period, a startling figure that underscores the need to break taboos and promote accessible, accurate education.
The National Menstrual Management Survey
This assessment was revealed in the first National Menstrual Management Survey conducted in 2022 by Essity, UNICEF, and Menstruation Digna Mexico. The survey not only highlighted the lack of information but also pointed out the scarcity in accessing menstrual hygiene products, the absence of suitable spaces for managing menstruation, and its direct impact on school attendance and labor productivity, according to Palmira Camargo, Vice President of Communications at Essity.
Impact on Education and Economy
One of the most compelling statistics is that 43% of girls in Mexico have skipped school at some point due to menstruation, as reported by UNICEF. This temporary absence creates an educational gap that negatively affects the country’s economic and social development, limiting growth and equity opportunities for millions of young women.
Essity’s Initiatives
From the private sector, Essity has spearheaded various initiatives such as “Ciclo M,” an educational and inclusive festival aiming to destigmatize the menstrual cycle through workshops, talks, and lived experiences involving women, men, adolescents, families, authorities, and experts. The goal is to initiate conversations about menstruation without taboos and encourage inclusion across all societal areas.
Moreover, Essity advocates for safe and affordable products under its Saba brand while urging public policies to ensure free distribution of menstrual hygiene supplies, especially for vulnerable populations. The company collaborates with UNICEF in the “Hygiene is Our Right” program, focusing on ensuring safe school restrooms with clean water, soap, and toilet paper—basic yet essential conditions for girls and adolescents to manage their menstruation dignifiedly.
Menstrual Management and Workplace Productivity
Another critical aspect is the impact of menstruation on workplace productivity. In 2023, Essity, along with Dalia Power and Plena, launched a survey analyzing how the menstrual cycle affects job performance, emphasizing the need to adapt labor policies that acknowledge this reality and foster inclusive work environments.
Male Involvement for Cultural Transformation
Male participation is crucial for cultural transformation. “Only 4 out of 10 men discuss menstruation with their daughters, and hardly any with their son, highlighting the need to involve men in this conversation to eliminate stigmas and promote a culture of shared respect and care,” explained Essity’s Communications VP.
Medical Attention and Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual management should also encompass medical attention for preventing and diagnosing associated conditions, such as endometriosis, whose symptoms are often mistakenly normalized, affecting the quality of life for many women.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue discussed? The article focuses on menstrual management as a socioeconomic challenge, particularly in Mexico.
- Who conducted the National Menstrual Management Survey? The survey was conducted by Essity, UNICEF, and Menstruation Digna Mexico in 2022.
- What are the implications of insufficient menstrual education? Insufficient education leads to a lack of knowledge about managing menstruation, affecting school attendance, labor productivity, and gender equality.
- What initiatives has Essity undertaken? Essity has launched “Ciclo M,” advocates for affordable menstrual products, supports public policies for free distribution of hygiene supplies, and collaborates with UNICEF to ensure safe school restrooms.
- How does the survey analyze menstrual cycle impact on work? The 2023 survey by Essity, Dalia Power, and Plena examines how the menstrual cycle affects job performance, advocating for inclusive work policies.
- Why is male involvement important? Involving men in menstrual conversations helps eliminate stigmas and foster a culture of shared respect and care.
- What medical aspect is often overlooked? The article highlights the need for medical attention and diagnosis of menstrual disorders like endometriosis, which can significantly impact women’s quality of life.
