Menstrual Dignity Through Markets—Safepad™ Leads the Way in Bangladesh
Dhaka, Bangladesh — In a groundbreaking new feature, The Daily Star spotlights innovative market-based solutions that are transforming menstrual health for underserved women across Bangladesh. The article—titled “Menstrual dignity through markets: A safe path for underserved women”—highlights how enterprises like Safepad™ are driving social impact through dignity, sustainability, and local empowerment. The Daily Star
Safepad™, a reusable, antimicrobial-coated sanitary pad developed by Danish social enterprise Real Relief, is setting a new standard. Available across 37 districts in Bangladesh, Safepad™ provides women—especially in refugee communities such as the Rohingya camps—with safe and hygienic menstrual products while minimizing environmental impact. The Business Standard
Beyond providing pads, the initiative fosters income-generating opportunities, training women to manufacture and distribute Safepads™ within their communities, thereby promoting both agency and awareness. Utpat Foundation+13The Business Standard+13gejja.org+13
This model aligns with broader national efforts. Bangladesh has launched its National Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Strategy (2021), introduced gender-inclusive toilets in schools, piloted sanitary pad vending machines, and integrated MHM education into the school curriculum. NGOs are increasingly promoting affordable and accessible menstrual health solutions. salto-youth.net+3The Daily Star+3The Business Standard+3
These structural changes reinforce the momentum and scale of private-sector and NGO-led solutions like Safepad™.
With The Daily Star article illuminating this hybrid of community-led entrepreneurship and systemic policy, Real Relief and its partners in Bangladesh can seize the spotlight to inspire expanded collaboration and positive change.