Mon Jan 06 14:10:32 UTC 2025: ## Mandya NGO Promotes Menstrual Cups to Improve Women’s Health and Reduce Waste

**Mysuru, Karnataka, January 6, 2025** – A grassroots campaign in Mandya district is quietly revolutionizing menstrual hygiene practices, promoting the adoption of menstrual cups over sanitary napkins. The initiative, spearheaded by the NGO Minds United Trust and launched a year ago under the name ‘Kali Nali Gelathi,’ aims to address the environmental and economic burdens associated with disposable sanitary pads.

The campaign highlights the affordability and eco-friendliness of menstrual cups. According to Kusuma K.S., an associate professor at JSS Medical College, Mysuru, and a key member of the NGO, two menstrual cups cost approximately ₹500 and can last five to eight years. This contrasts sharply with the monthly expense of sanitary napkins, which can range from ₹100 to ₹125. Furthermore, the non-biodegradable nature of sanitary pads poses a significant environmental challenge.

The NGO is actively engaging with women in rural areas through awareness meetings and free distribution of menstrual cups. The campaign utilizes various methods, including Kannada-language YouTube videos and word-of-mouth testimonials. Dr. Kishor, Professor and Head of Psychiatry at JSS Medical College, notes that the campaign initially focused on Mandya due to its high rate of early marriages, and plans to expand to other districts based on its success. The program initially involved an online orientation session led by Dr. Sunanda Kulkarni, a renowned OBG specialist.

The initiative’s success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of local volunteers and the growing recognition among women of the benefits of menstrual cups. The campaign represents a significant step towards improved women’s health and environmental sustainability in the region.

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