Sunyani: World Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed annually on May 28, aims to raise awareness about menstruation and promote good menstrual hygiene practices. The day also seeks to dismantle taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation, educate people about menstrual hygiene, dispel myths, and promote period-friendly practices.
According to Ghana News Agency, several organizations support women and girls in marginalized communities, advocating for policy reforms and increased funding to improve menstrual health and hygiene infrastructure. This effort has led to significant progress, including increased access to menstrual products and education, as well as improved policies and infrastructure to support menstrual health.
Despite these advancements, the 2025 celebration of the day highlights the ongoing struggles of adolescent girls in Ghana. Menstruation, a natural part of life, remains a source of shame, discomfort, and health risks for many young girls. The theme for this year's celebration, 'Together for a Period Friendly World,' emphasizes the need for a collective approach to break down the taboos and stigmas surrounding menstruation.
In Ghana, many adolescent girls face significant challenges regarding menstrual hygiene. Although some schools receive donations of sanitary pads, these often end up in the hands of female teachers rather than the intended recipients. A recent incident in a Senior High School in the Sunyani West Municipality of the Bono Region exemplifies this issue, where donated sanitary pads primarily benefited female teachers instead of the vulnerable girls.
The lack of adequate menstrual hygiene resources has far-reaching consequences, leading some girls to resort to using polythene bags and other unhygienic materials, resulting in serious health complications. Some girls even drop out of school due to the shame and embarrassment associated with menstruation.
Mr. George Yaw Ankamah, the Bono Regional Director of the Department of Children, recounted a story of an adolescent girl who stood in class for hours, too shy to sit down because she was menstruating and lacked a sanitary pad. This scenario highlights the urgent need to support girls during their menstruation.
The story underscores the need for systemic change to address the menstrual hygiene needs of adolescent girls. Mr. Ankamah emphasized the importance of identifying these girls and resolving their problems comprehensively, noting that many more girls likely face similar challenges.
The consequences of inadequate menstrual hygiene can be devastating, with some girls falling victim to sexual exploitation. Madam Esther Boa shared her experience of using pieces of cloth during her teens and called on parents to provide their daughters with sanitary pads to avoid such issues.
To create a more period-friendly world, there is a need for menstrual hygiene education and awareness, comprehensive menstrual health programs in schools, and open family discussions about menstruation. Additionally, making sanitary pads affordable and accessible to all girls, regardless of their social, cultural, or economic backgrounds, is crucial. With donations and government subsidies, vulnerable girls can access sanitary pads to maintain their well-being during menstruation.
In conclusion, fostering a more understanding and supportive society is essential for girls to feel comfortable opening up and sharing their problems. By addressing taboos and stigmas, the holistic growth and development of girls can be supported, creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.
