Making a Period-Friendly Indonesia: How Perfect Fit is Leading the #MenstruasiRamah Change
By Tungga Dewi
Despite being a natural biological process experienced by 1.8 billion people globally, women and girls still face significant challenges in managing menstruation, particularly in Indonesia. These challenges involve stigma, health, environmental problems, and equity.
Current Problems in Menstruation
In Indonesia, menstrual education is severely lacking, which contributes to the stigma surrounding people who menstruate. Data from UNICEF Indonesia shows that 1 in 4 girls in Indonesia never had period and puberty education before experiencing menstruation for the first time. This lack of knowledge leaves many feeling confused, sad, and fearful, with some even breaking down in tears when their first period arrives. In the workplace, female employees face similar issues. According to Deloitte's Women at Work 2023 report, 1 in 5 women surveyed face health challenges related to menstruation and menopause, with more than half working through discomfort, unable to take the necessary time off or access appropriate care.
The taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation also limit innovation around menstrual products, as discussing it publicly is often avoided. Consequently, many women use sanitary pads that contain high levels of chlorine and highly absorbent gel and single-use plastic. These materials are harmful to both health and the environment. Chlorine, phthalates, and fragrances in pads can cause rashes, urinary tract infections, and increase the risk of reproductive health problems. The environmental impact is equally concerning. With 90% of women using commercial sanitary pads, Indonesia disposes of 8 billion sanitary pads each year, which take around 500 years to degrade, leading to massive environmental pollution.
The Impact of Unfriendly Menstruation on Girls and Society
The lack of proper menstrual education and facilities can severely hinder a girl's potential. Research shows that while menstruation itself may not directly affect school attendance, inadequate menstrual-friendly facilities and the stigma surrounding menstruation can affect girls' performance and productivity in schools. Without the right support and resources, girls are less productive and more likely to feel ashamed or embarrassed, leading to decreased participation in class.
In the workplace, menstrual health issues can significantly impact women's productivity and comfort. When women are forced to work through discomfort or are unable to access the necessary facilities and support, their performance suffers, and they may feel undervalued and overlooked compared to their male peers. This situation is not only a loss for the company but also for the overall economy.
When women are more productive, companies benefit in terms of job satisfaction, lower turnover, and better team relationships. This can lead to higher revenue and improved company reputation. As McKinsey's latest report shows, closing the women’s health gap could boost the global economy by USD 1.7 trillion.
Why Perfect Fit Started #MenstruasiRamah — Period Friendly Indonesia
Recognizing these challenges and the benefits of making a period-friendly world, Perfect Fit launched the #MenstruasiRamah initiative. For us, Menstruasi (menstruation) Ramah (friendly) means doing everything we can to support women, girls, and people with periods to have a friendly and safe experience during menstruations. This aligns with our mission to help women thrive in their society, live powerful, safe, balanced lives, and make a difference in their communities.
#MenstruasiRamah is driven by the belief that improving menstrual health and hygiene is not just a women's issue but a human rights and societal issue that benefits everyone.
For girls, having a better understanding of their bodies and access to necessary products and facilities can transform their futures. They will be more comfortable managing the changes in their bodies and hormones during their menstrual cycles. They will also know that menstruation should not limit them from going to school or dreaming of becoming scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, leaders, or any profession they aspire to.
For women in the workplace, better menstruation management improves their quality of life and benefits companies. When women feel more productive and valued, they contribute more effectively to their workplaces, leading to a more positive working environment and higher revenue in the long term.
How Perfect Fit is Leading the #MenstruasiRamah in Indonesia
We know that achieving a Period-Friendly Indonesia requires collaboration with many stakeholders. Perfect Fit focuses on three main areas:
Healthier and More Sustainable Products:
We offer products designed to be better for both bodies and the environment. From reusable pads and period underwear to biodegradable bamboo pads, our products provide healthier and more sustainable options for women. These products reduce the health risks associated with chemical-laden sanitary pads and cut down on environmental waste.
Collaborating with Schools and Companies:
We work closely with schools to create period-friendly spaces that make girls feel safe and included. Our workshops educate students and staff about menstruation, breaking down stigmas and promoting a supportive environment. In companies, we advocate for free sanitary products in restrooms and work with HR to provide resources to help women manage their menstrual health confidently.
Providing Support to Women in Need:
Perfect Fit is a social enterprise committed to making #MenstruasiRamah for everyone. Last year, we donated 1,800 reusable pads and provided education to 1,800 women in marginalized communities across Indonesia, including Flores, Bali, and West Java. In Indonesia, 22% of women and girls lack the resources to manage their periods well due to insufficient products, education, and facilities. Our impact efforts are crucial in addressing period poverty and ensuring that all women have access to the products and information they need.