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@article{206992,
        author = {Kalaiyarasi K and Dr. Sundara Raj T},
        title = {Greening the Period: Organic Menstrual Practices Among Female Students at Periyar University},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {2},
        pages = {3588-3594},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=206992},
        abstract = {Menstrual hygiene management is an important component of women's health, dignity, gender equality, and environmental sustainability. Although disposable sanitary pads remain the most commonly used menstrual product, their widespread use raises concerns regarding plastic waste, disposal practices, and the long-term environmental burden associated with single-use products. At the same time, menstrual practices are shaped not only by individual preferences but also by cultural beliefs, family norms, economic conditions, accessibility, social stigma, and environmental awareness. This article examines the sociological dimensions of sustainable menstrual practices among female students at Periyar University. It focuses on the relationship between ecological consciousness, menstrual stigma, product accessibility, affordability, and the knowledge–practice gap surrounding eco-friendly menstrual products. The article argues that university students occupy a significant transitional position: they are increasingly exposed to environmental education and sustainability discourses while continuing to experience traditional beliefs and family-based restrictions surrounding menstruation. Previous research suggests that sustainable menstrual products can reduce waste and may offer long-term economic benefits, but adoption is influenced by affordability, accessibility, cultural norms, hygiene concerns, and the availability of appropriate education. Life-cycle evidence further indicates that reusable products can have substantially lower environmental impacts than many disposable alternatives, although environmental performance depends on the complete life cycle of the product and patterns of use. The article proposes a sociological framework connecting socio-cultural practices, perceived health and environmental risks, and behavioural change. It concludes that promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene requires more than simply increasing awareness; it requires culturally sensitive education, affordable access, improved availability, supportive infrastructure, and the normalization of open conversations about menstruation.},
        keywords = {Menstrual hygiene management, sustainable menstruation, eco-friendly menstrual products, menstrual stigma, environmental awareness, university students, Periyar University},
        month = {July},
        }