A comprehensive public health strategy for menstrual health in India: insights from the “cup of life” project

Purpose Menstrual cups are a safe, cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to single-use menstrual products; however, most people hesitate to use them due to sociocultural and practical concerns. The current project is an innovative public health model that promotes menstrual health through a complex multi-pronged approach suitable for resource-poor settings. Design/methodology/approach The paper elaborates on the model, execution and outcomes of a collaborative and inclusive public–private participatory (PPP) model implemented by trained individuals, along with results from a preliminary evaluative study. A total of 739 participants were selected by cluster sampling for a structured quantitative study, while 12 people were chosen using purposive and maximum variation sampling to capture their subjective experiences through a qualitative approach. The data were collected online from March to April 2023. Findings Data from the six-month follow-up showed that 66.7% adopted menstrual cups, 85.3% expressed satisfaction and 75% reported comfort in using the cups. Further, the educational intervention was effective in reducing their doubts and concerns (74.8%), and it was effective in mitigating their inhibitions regarding the use of cups in 83.9% of respondents. Practical challenges in usage and fear of insertion were identified as major barriers to use. Across all age groups, peer support emerged as the most significant source of encouragement for using menstrual cups. Originality/value The public health strategy offers a model of community engagement, volunteer mobilization and resource coordination that can be adapted to other health initiatives. The study further emphasizes that public health initiatives toward menstrual health should be accompanied by educational components to address myths and improve adherence. The strategy proved effective in promoting menstrual cups and improving menstrual hygiene. Public health initiatives with a robust educational component would ensure community support and sustain healthy practices.