Kathmandu, November 25
On Thursday, menstrual health stakeholders from across Nepal gathered to discuss the urgent need for menstrual product standards, with particular focus on the International Organization for Standardization’s Technical Committee 338 (ISO TC 338) Menstrual Product Standard. The Nepal Menstrual Health Product Standard and Stakeholder Engagement Conference, was hosted by Days for Girls Nepal, Days for Girls International, and the Swedish Institute of Standards (SIS).
The conference gathered representatives from the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology, Menstrual Health Management Partners’ Alliance (MHMPA), researchers, international and local NGOs, and advocates dedicated to improving menstrual health across Nepal.
Presentations highlighted the important role that standards play in ensuring menstrual products meet key safety, quality, and performance requirements. Currently, there is no global menstrual product standard. The morning session focused on the ISO TC 338 standard in development, explaining its relevance and how global standards can strengthen national efforts. Discussions also emphasized about the opportunity for Nepal to actively participate in shaping the ISO standard, making sure it meets the country’s specific needs by being involved in its development.
Maya Khaitu, Country Director of Days for Girls Nepal, said, “Bringing together diverse stakeholders at this conference to discuss the need for a menstrual product standard is a crucial step to ensure that products used in Nepal are safe and effective. Nepal’s support of the ISO TC 338 will help advance menstrual health standards across the country and protect the health of all users.”
Another round of the conference featured presentations from local organizations showcasing impactful projects and research, followed by a stakeholder mapping activity aimed at identifying gaps and opportunities to maximize collective impact.
Dr. Ulrike Ryll, from the Swedish Institute of Standards, said, “Gathering at the conference with the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology and other stakeholders, and learning about the menstrual health work happening in Nepal, gave me valuable insights into the ongoing efforts and challenges within the country.”
