Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) remain a critical public health concern in the climate-vulnerable Sundarbans region of West Bengal, where poverty, gender inequality orchestral of patriarchy, social stigma and limited access to healthcare continue to restrict the availability and utilization of essential reproductive health products and services. This research study examines the accessibility, demand, purchasing behaviour and community acceptance of SRHR products through an outlet off-take survey conducted across 50 local outlets, including pharmacy stores, general stores and private clinics, in ten Gram Panchayats of Patharpratima Block. Employing a mixed-methods approach with structured questionnaires, vendor interviews and observational techniques, the study explores changes in consumer behaviour and identifies factors influencing product uptake. The findings reveal universal availability of sanitary napkins, while condoms and oral contraceptive pills were stocked by 88% and 80% of outlets, respectively. Demand for sanitary napkins was consistently high, particularly among adolescent girls and young women, indicating improved menstrual hygiene practices. Vendors reported a gradual reduction in stigma associated with purchasing SRHR products, increased consumer awareness, growing preference for specific brands and greater participation of men in family planning decisions. Economic hardship, climate-related disruptions and entrenched patriarchal norms continue to hinder equitable access to SRHR products and services. The study concludes that local retail outlets play a vital role in improving access to reproductive health commodities and fostering positive social change. Strengthening community awareness, enhancing vendor capacity, ensuring affordable product availability, integrating climate-responsive healthcare strategies and promoting gender-inclusive approaches are essential for sustaining improvements in SRHR outcomes among vulnerable populations in the Indian Sundarbans.
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), family planning, outlet off-take study, Sundarbans, Behavioural Change in Reproductive Health, Community-Based Health Access.
Dr. Somdatta Neogi. Crossing Threshold of Patriarchy and Taboos Towards SRHR: A Study Conducted in the Sundarbans. Indian Journal of Modern Research and Reviews. 2026; 4(7):25-32
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