Menstrual Hygiene Practices and Their Physical, Social, and Environmental Impact in Women's Lives: A Study of 2,000 Women Reporting to a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) is among the chief human rights and a fundamental public health indicator. Low and Middle Income Nations. In (LMICs) such as Pakistan, women are frequently influenced by socio-economic and socio-cultural factors to use inappropriate menstrual practices that have a negative impact on physical health, social life, and the environment. Although awareness has increased, combined effects of the menstrual hygiene behaviors have not been explored in clinically validated cohorts.

Purpose: To establish the menstrual hygiene practices of the women in Tertiary hospital and evaluate the physical, social and environmental impact of the menstrual hygiene practices by the women.

Methods: The study was a cross sectional descriptive research which was conducted over a duration of six months from July 2025 to December 2025. 2,000 women between 15-50 years ere selected. Stratified random sampling was used to select the participants and a structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used to interview them on the following issues: demographics, menstrual hygiene practices, physical health outcomes, social effects, and environmental disposal practices. The data and chi-square and t-tests were analyzed using the SPSS v25.0 to test the associations. The approval of the ethical aspect was done by PEMEH Institutional Review Board.

Findings: 68 % of the respondents wore sanitary pads, 25 % cloth, and the remaining 7 % other materials.  Physical health-related matters were also more prevalent among cloth users (p < 0.01) and were indicated to be 28% (urinary tract infections), 22% (reproductive tract infections), and 15% (skin irritation).  The domestic waste disposal practices (65%), burning (20%), open dumping (10%), and only 5% will use a biodegradable alternative as an environmental implication. Among social effects, there was stigma (62%), and work or school absenteeism (32.5%).  The use of cloth and lack of cleanliness was associated with low socioeconomic status (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The social interaction, environmental sustainability, and physical health of this cohort depend largely on the menstrual hygiene practices of this group. Poor socioeconomic conditions and cultural stigma have led to unhygienic practices that lead to high rates of reproductive morbidity, educational and occupational absenteeism, and poor menstrual waste disposal. Increased access to sanitary products, participative health education, non-destigmatization of menstruation, and sustainable approaches to waste management are all required to ensure the health safety of women and influence a sense of environmental accountability.