In Uganda, the vast majority of women and girls use homemade alternatives to manage their menstruation and lack access to proper menstrual health education. As a result, 70% of adolescent girls in Uganda cite menstruation as a major hindrance to their optimal performance at school. An innovative solution has proven to be key: sustainable menstrual health girls can count on. Lack of access to menstrual health products, education and supportive policy environments contribute to school and workplace absenteeism and health issues among women and girls in Uganda. Menstruation and menstrual practices are still disquieted by taboos and socio-cultural restrictions resulting in women and girls lacking access to accurate timely puberty and menstrual health information, which can result in adverse health and livelihood outcomes.
Empowering girls in Uganda with menstrual health education and resources is essential for their well-being, educational attainment, and overall empowerment. This holistic approach to providing healthcare positively impacts women and girls by:
1). Providing comprehensive menstrual health education to girls, including information about menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, and the biological aspects of menstruation. This education helps dispel myths, reduce stigma, and empower girls to manage their periods with confidence.
2). Ensuring that girls have access to affordable and reliable menstrual hygiene products, such as sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Lack of access to these products can hinder girls’ school attendance, confidence, and overall well-being.
3). Improving sanitation infrastructure in schools by providing clean and private toilets, handwashing facilities, and disposal bins for menstrual hygiene products. This creates a more hygienic and comfortable environment for girls to manage their periods at school.
4). Establishing period-friendly policies in schools that accommodate girls’ menstrual needs, such as flexible bathroom breaks, access to clean water, and a supportive environment where girls can openly discuss menstrual health issues without fear of stigma or discrimination.
5). Training older girls or female teachers as peer educators to lead menstrual health workshops, discussions, and support groups for younger girls. Peer education can create a safe space for girls to learn, ask questions, and share experiences related to menstrual health.
6). Involving parents, caregivers, community leaders, and local health providers in menstrual health education initiatives to raise awareness, address cultural taboos, and ensure ongoing support for girls’ menstrual health needs.
7). Addressing menstrual health as part of broader efforts to promote gender equality, empower girls, and challenge harmful gender stereotypes that may contribute to menstrual stigma and discrimination.
By empowering girls in Uganda with menstrual health education, access to hygiene products, supportive school environments, and community engagement, we can help girls manage their periods with dignity, stay in school, and reach their full potential in all aspects of their lives.
Want to get involved? Make a donation, create a fundraiser or consider sending this article to your friends. If your friends tell their friends, who tell their friends – that’s a whole lot of friends. So join us on Facebook, Twitter, and share our latest stories, blogs and posts. Your support and sharing our story with your friends helps us achieve our mission. Answer the call today and fulfill Jesus’ mandate to be in mission.