Menstrual health is a crucial aspect of a young girl's life, yet it remains a topic shrouded in silence and stigma in many parts of the world, particularly in Africa. As an African woman, parent, or guardian, it's essential to break this silence and ensure that your girl child is educated about menstrual health. Also ensuring that she is empowered, and supported through their menstrual health journey.

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Understanding the Landscape

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In Sub-Saharan Africa, the conversation around menstrual health is not just about biology; it's about combating period poverty, ensuring access to sanitary products, and breaking down the barriers that prevent girls from attending school and participating fully in society. A study has shown that the pooled prevalence of good menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa is only 45%. This is far below the Sustainable Development Goal 6.2 target, which aims for adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all by 2030.

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The Impact of Period Poverty in Africa

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Period poverty is a significant issue that affects many girls across Africa. It's estimated that 1 in 10 girls in Africa miss school because they don't have access to menstrual products or adequate toilets. This not only impacts their education but also their future economic opportunities. The lack of access to safe and affordable menstrual products can lead to health risks such as reproductive and urinary tract infections, which can have long-term consequences.

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 How to Talk to Your Girl Child About Menstrual Health

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1. Start the Conversation

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Talking to your girl child about menstrual health should be an ongoing dialogue rather than a one-time discussion. It's important to create a comfortable environment where your child feels safe to ask questions and express concerns. Here are some tips on how to approach the conversation:

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• Begin Early: Introduce the topic in a simple and age-appropriate way when they show curiosity. Talk about periods as openly as you would discuss any other health topic. Mention them casually in conversation, like "Are you due for your period soon?" or "Let's stock up on pads for the month." This casualness chips away at the stigma and makes your daughter feel comfortable approaching you with questions.

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• Be Positive: Emphasize that menstruation is a normal and healthy part of growing up and nothing to worry about.

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• Educate: Explain the biological process, the importance of hygiene, and the use of menstrual products.

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• Support: Assure them that they can come to you with any questions or issues they may face.

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2. Address Cultural Myths

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Many cultures have misconceptions around menstruation. Is your daughter worried about being "unclean" during her period? Talk to her about the science behind menstruation, explaining it's a natural process for a healthy body. Address cultural restrictions – can she participate in religious ceremonies or touch certain foods? Research and discuss these limitations openly, empowering her to navigate cultural norms with confidence.

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3. Go Beyond Pads and Tampons

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Reusable menstrual cups and period panties are gaining popularity in Africa. While affordability might be a concern, discuss these options along with traditional pads. This empowers your daughter to choose what works best for her comfort and lifestyle.

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4. Embrace Body Positivity

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Let's be honest, periods can come with mood swings, bloating, and cramps. But they're also a sign of a healthy body! Discuss the physical changes your girl child might experience and normalize them. Celebrate the strength and resilience her body shows each month.

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5. Open the Door for Continuous Communication

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Let your daughter know this conversation is ongoing. Periods are a lifelong experience, and questions or concerns will likely arise throughout her life.  Make it clear you're a safe space for her to talk about anything related to her menstrual health, from period irregularities to sexual and reproductive health.

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Don't forget:

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• Age plays a role. Tailor your conversation to your daughter's age and understanding.
• Use inclusive language. Consider terms used in your local language instead of solely relying on English terms.
• Be a role model. Openly discuss your own experiences (if comfortable) to show periods are a normal part of life.

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By fostering open communication and addressing the cultural context, African women can empower a generation of African girls to embrace their bodies, manage their health, and shatter the silence around menstruation.

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Also Read: Debbo Africa: How We Provide Quality Healthcare for African Women

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Sources

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(1) Debbo Africa (https://www.debbo.africa)

(2) 4 Ways Period Poverty Affects Africa's Women and Girls (https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/period-poverty-activists-africa-impact-women-girls/).

(3) Talking to Your Child About Periods (for Parents) - KidsHealth. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/talk-about-menstruation.html.

(4) Period talk: how to start the conversation with your kids | HCF. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/period-talk.

(5) Talking to Your Daughter About Periods - Kids Plus Pediatrics. https://kidsplus.com/parent-resources/doctors-notes/talking-to-your-daughter-about-periods/.

(6) Advice for moms: talking to your daughter about menstruation. https://www.thechildren.com/health-info/conditions-and-illnesses/advice-moms-talking-your-daughter-about-menstruation.

(7) FACT SHEET: Menstrual health and hygiene management still out of reach for many - UNICEF. https://www.unicef.org/eap/press-releases/fact-sheet-menstrual-health-and-hygiene-management-still-out-reach-many.

(8) Globally, periods are causing girls to be absent from school. https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/globally-periods-are-causing-girls-be-absent-school.

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