The materials in this publication were developed, tested and commented upon across five Indian states through one-on-one interviews with people in different age groups, focus groups, and discussions held in various settings including schools. A writer’s workshop was organised by WSSCC in February 2013 in Mumbai bringing together MHM Lab facilitators, designers, trainers and experts to develop the range of manuals and tools. Disability experts were a key part of the process of addressing this vital topic within the context of MHM and in developing this publication.

This publication is meant to be used by service providers, extension and community workers, teachers, parents and peers in their efforts to reach out to large numbers of women and girls in an efficient and effective way without compromising on quality and message. It is not confined to sanitation, water and hygiene, rather it seeks to build comfort, pride, dignity, confidence and related demand so that women and girls can be full members of society at all times without shame and fear.

This publication and the accompanying materials are intended to deepen our understanding of the biological nature of this phenomenon in order to reclaim and restore the pride and confidence that should naturally be a part of it. Managing menstruation hygienically with linked sanitary facilities is an important aspect of life – the practical dimensions of which this publication also aims to facilitate – resulting in clean, convenient facilities that offer privacy and dignity for women at any time of the month. Policymakers, trainers, development partners, civil society, academics, the media and community leaders are invited to use these publications to intensify and amplify the transformation already underway in the country with regard to menstrual hygiene management.