By Sheryl Christine
Growing up, discussions about menstruation were shrouded in taboo and stigma. I remember the whispers, the discomfort, and the myths that surrounded it. However, as I journeyed through adolescence and into adulthood, I realized the urgent need to break this silence and empower girls and women to embrace their menstrual health confidently. Here are some crucial topics that deserve our attention:
Understanding Period Poverty: Period poverty goes beyond the lack of menstrual hygiene products; it encompasses inadequate sanitation and a lack of comprehensive menstrual education. This issue disproportionately affects women and girls globally, particularly those in lower-income communities.
Menstrual Cycle Tracking: Educating girls about their menstrual cycle is essential. From understanding when to expect their periods to recognizing irregularities, tracking menstrual cycles empowers girls to monitor their health and seek help when needed.
Dispelling Myths and Misinformation: There are countless myths surrounding menstruation. Providing accurate information helps combat misconceptions and enables girls to make informed decisions about their health.
Managing Emotions: Menstruation often comes with emotional ups and downs. Normalizing mood swings and encouraging open communication about feelings can help prevent mental health issues.
Emphasizing Nutrition and Exercise: A healthy diet and regular exercise can positively impact menstrual health by promoting regular cycles and reducing period cramps.
Empowering Girls and Women: We must teach girls and women that menstruation is a normal and healthy part of life. Empowering them to advocate for safe menstruation and educating boys and men fosters empathy and understanding.
Pain Management: Educating girls about their bodies and menstrual symptoms equips them with the tools to manage pain effectively, whether through heat packs or pain relievers.
Additionally, governments should prioritize menstrual health education and access to menstrual hygiene products in schools. Implementing policies and closely monitoring their implementation can help prevent issues like teen pregnancy, school dropout rates, early marriage, and the mental health impact of period shame and stigma.
It’s time to break the silence surrounding menstruation and create a supportive environment where girls and women can embrace their menstrual health with confidence and pride.
