The onset of menstruation means a new phase – and new vulnerabilities – in the lives of adolescents. Yet, many adolescent girls face stigma, harassment and social exclusion during menstruation. Menstrual health and hygiene interventions can help overcome these obstacles. Not only do they fulfil the unmet demand for menstrual hygiene products; they also protect dignity, build confidence, and strengthen sexual and reproductive health, particularly among adolescents.
At Amity Uganda, we are working in partnership with schools and communities to create awareness and normalize periods so that every girl can enjoy their monthly periods without any form of stigmatization. We educate students about body changes and puberty in general so that they don’t feel out of place during that time of the month. A girl’s menstrual health is crucial to her well-being and also to the well-being of her community. Getting menstrual hygiene kits and information on sanitation is therefore imperative as it equips the adolescents with all the necessary knowledge.
From students to teachers, testimonies among the schools we operate in show the benefits of normalizing menstrual hygiene conversations in schools and the possibilities for change.
“As a Teacher, I believe that education on Mmenstrual Hhealth and hygiene should be a priority to address our girls’ needs while in school,” said Esther a teacher at Bembe Primary School
“Talking openly about menstruation and puberty and educating both boys and girls would be a promising step towards reducing feelings of shame and discomfort around this topic,” she added.
Providing students with adequate and timely information and promoting menstrual health is of utmost importance. Teachers and school staff should be trained to provide this kind of support.
Education about menstruation changes everything. Let’s invest in creating awareness and breaking the stigma.
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