A few weeks ago, we had a special celebration at Ushirika School in Kibera to mark the 2nd Menstrual Hygiene Day of 2023. During our mentorship session, we had a meaningful discussion with the students. One of the questions that came up was how they cope with their periods while attending a boarding school and who they feel comfortable talking to about it.
Before answering, they asked us to excuse the female school director to ensure a safe and open space for sharing. They even requested some of our male mentors to leave temporarily, which made us realize that it's not just girls who feel shy about their periods, but they also struggle to openly discuss it. This got us thinking about how we can raise awareness so that every young woman embraces her womanhood without hesitation.
Education is something every child deserves, regardless of who they are.
Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, including Kenya, there's an issue that prevents girls from receiving the education they deserve. It's known as period poverty, and it's a significant problem. Period poverty occurs when girls lack the necessary resources during their menstrual cycles, such as sanitary products, clean facilities, and reliable information on self-care. This leads to school absences and has various negative effects on their lives.
Let's explore some of the ways period poverty and shame affect girls' education:
1. Missing School: When girls don't have what they need during their periods, they often have to miss school. This adds up to many days each month and makes it challenging for them to keep up with their classmates. Over time, this can seriously hinder their learning and academic progress, limiting their future opportunities.
2. Lower Grades: Missing school due to period poverty makes it difficult for girls to catch up on missed lessons. This struggle can lead to poorer grades and decreased confidence in their abilities. Sometimes, girls even drop out of school entirely, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
3. Feeling Ashamed: Not having the necessary resources during their periods can make girls feel embarrassed and ashamed. They might lack a private space to take care of themselves and may face teasing or ridicule from others. This deeply affects their self-esteem and sense of belonging in school.
4. Health Risks: Insufficient resources during periods can put girls' health at risk. Using unsanitary materials like rags or leaves can lead to infections and other health problems. Without access to clean water and a private area to change and clean up, girls are more likely to experience discomfort and illness during their periods.
So, what can we do to help?
1. Provide Sanitary Products: Ensuring that girls have affordable and accessible sanitary products is crucial. Governments, non-profit organizations, and companies can collaborate to distribute free or low-cost sanitary pads to schools in need. Additionally, we can help local communities produce their own eco-friendly sanitary products.
2. Teach Menstrual Health: Girls need comprehensive education on how to care for themselves during their periods. Schools can provide age-appropriate menstrual health and hygiene lessons that dispel myths and taboos. By equipping girls with the knowledge and tools to manage their menstrual pain and stay clean and healthy, we empower them.
3. Improve Facilities: Schools must have suitable facilities that meet girls' needs during menstruation. This includes clean and private toilets, running water, and safe disposal methods for sanitary products. Creating separate spaces for girls to change and attend to their needs will help them feel comfortable and respected during their periods.
4. Empower Girls:
We need to foster a supportive environment where girls feel safe and valued. This involves involving boys, teachers, and parents in conversations about periods, fostering understanding and support for girls.
Conclusions: Let's Make a Positive Change!
In conclusion, addressing period poverty is a crucial step towards ensuring equal opportunities for girls in Kenyan schools. By providing sanitary products, teaching menstrual health, improving facilities, and empowering girls, we can make a positive change in their lives.
It is our collective responsibility to break the stigma surrounding periods and create an inclusive environment where every young woman feels confident and supported.
Together, let's work towards eliminating period poverty and unlocking the full potential of girls, enabling them to thrive academically and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
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