A new campaign in India is calling on men to discuss menstrual health and break the social stigmas surrounding the topic [1, 2].

This effort aims to foster a more equitable society by involving men in a health issue that affects half the population [1]. By encouraging open dialogue, the initiative seeks to improve access to menstrual products, and ensure the availability of safe facilities for those who need them [1, 2].

The initiative is part of the Dettol-NDTV #BanegaSwasthIndia campaign, which coincided with Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, 2024 [1, 2]. Actor Ayushmann Khurrana serves as the campaign ambassador, using his platform to urge men to acknowledge the importance of menstrual hygiene [1, 2].

Advocates for the campaign said that menstruation is often treated as a taboo subject, which can lead to poor health outcomes and limited support systems. The program emphasizes that creating a healthier environment requires the participation of all genders — not just those who menstruate [1, 2].

Because menstruation affects approximately 50 percent of the population [1], the campaign argues that men have a direct role in supporting the health and dignity of women and girls. The push for better infrastructure focuses on the necessity of safe, private facilities to maintain hygiene and health standards [1, 2].

By integrating men into these conversations, the #BanegaSwasthIndia campaign hopes to dismantle long-standing cultural barriers that have historically isolated menstrual health as a private female concern [1, 2].

“Men have a role in creating a healthier, more equitable society.”

This campaign represents a shift in public health strategy by framing menstrual hygiene not only as a women's health issue but as a societal responsibility. By targeting men, the initiative attempts to remove the cultural shame that often prevents the implementation of necessary infrastructure, such as clean toilets and affordable sanitary products, in public and educational spaces.