Feminine Hygiene – A Photobook by Ghufrana Yasmin

Feminine Hygiene: Based on Females of Rural Area is a powerful photojournalism project that highlights the lived realities of women managing menstruation in rural Gurgaon, India. Through real stories, documented with consent, this photobook sheds light on the challenges of menstrual hygiene, affordability, awareness, health concerns, and social taboos. Despite growing conversations around gender equality, menstruation remains a sensitive and often silenced topic in many parts of India. This project captures the voices of rural women — labourers, migrant families, married women, and young girls — who navigate their menstrual health with limited resources. Many rely on reusable cotton cloths due to financial constraints, while others face recurring health issues such as rashes, infections, and severe menstrual pain without proper medical guidance. The photobook not only presents their stories but also offers educational insights on: Safe reuse of cotton cloth Proper sanitary napkin disposal methods Importance of sun-drying to prevent infections Avoiding harsh soaps for intimate hygiene Nutritional guidance for menstrual health Environmentally responsible menstrual waste management By combining storytelling with awareness, this project aims to break menstrual taboos, encourage open dialogue, and promote safe, affordable, and sustainable menstrual practices. This work stands as a voice for rural women — acknowledging their resilience while advocating for better access to sanitation, education, and menstrual health resources. A step toward dignity, awareness, and change. — Ghufrana Yasmin Communication Strategist