Menstrual hygiene is a vital aspect of health and well-being for girls and women worldwide. In Nigeria, where cultural and economic barriers often limit access to proper menstrual hygiene products and education, it's essential to address these challenges and empower girls to manage their menstruation with dignity and confidence.

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Understanding Menstrual Hygiene

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Menstrual hygiene involves the use of clean menstrual management materials, proper washing of the body, and access to facilities for disposing of used materials. It's crucial for preventing infections and ensuring that girls can continue with their daily activities, including school, without interruption.

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The Challenges in Nigeria

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In Nigeria, many girls lack access to sanitary products and adequate sanitation facilities. A significant number of the population, approximately two-thirds, do not have access to proper sanitation. This lack of facilities can restrict girls' access to education and participation in society, as well as endanger their health.

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Statistics Highlighting the Issue

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• Period Poverty: Girls in Nigeria lose about 24% of their school days due to menstruation.
• Economic Impact: With a heavy tax on menstrual products, a pack of pads costs around $1.30, while approximately 44% of the population, facing extreme poverty, make less than $1.90 per day.
• Knowledge Gap: Studies show that menstrual knowledge is higher in post-menarcheal girls, but more than half use non-sanitary materials as menstrual absorbents.

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Also Read: Medical Tests You and Your Partner Must Do Before Getting Married

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Innovative Solutions and Practices

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Entrepreneurship and Education

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Young girls like Zainab Yakubu have turned to entrepreneurship, making and selling reusable but affordable menstrual pads, providing a sustainable solution for themselves and their community.

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School Initiatives

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Schools like All Saints Primary School in Benue State have ensured clean and safe places for menstrual hygiene, encouraging girls to attend school even during their periods.

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Community Engagement

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In Adamawa State, UNICEF-trained community members have promoted good menstrual hygiene practices, fostering intimacy and understanding within families.

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Practical Tips for Good Menstrual Hygiene

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1. Cleanliness is Key: Wash your vulva (external genitals) with clean water and mild, unscented soap daily. Avoid douches or harsh vaginal cleansers, which can disrupt your natural balance.

2. Consider reusable options: Disposable pads are popular, but consider reusable options like menstrual cups or washable cloth pads. These can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run.

3. Change It Up: Frequency depends on your flow, but aim to change pads or empty your cup every 4-8 hours. This prevents leaks and keeps you feeling fresh.

4. Bin It Right: Wrap used pads or liners in paper and dispose of them in a bin. Never flush them down the toilet! If using a menstrual cup, empty it into the toilet and rinse thoroughly with clean water before reinserting.

5. Underwear Matters: Breathable cotton underwear is your best friend. Avoid tight-fitting synthetics that can trap moisture and irritate the skin.

6. Education: Learn about menstruation and menstrual hygiene management from reliable sources.

7. Breaking the Taboo: Engage in open conversations with family and peers to break the stigma around menstruation.

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Conclusion

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Empowering Nigerian girls with knowledge and resources for good menstrual hygiene is crucial for their health, education, and overall empowerment. By addressing the challenges and promoting innovative solutions, we can ensure that no girl is left behind because of her period.

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Having menstrual issues or any other health challenges? Reach out to Debbo Africa. We are a team of women-only medical doctors, and we are poised to provide you with the best healthcare possible.

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Sources

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(1) Menstrual hygiene practice and associated factors among adolescent

https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-14942-8.

(2) Nigeria: Menstruation matters — United Purpose. https://united-purpose.org/stories/2021/5/5/nigeria-menstruation-matters.

(3) Reduce period poverty and increase education in Nigeria. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/09/period-poverty-menstruation-nigeria-education-global-shapers/.

(4) The Plight of Period Poverty in Nigeria - The Borgen Project. https://borgenproject.org/period-poverty-in-nigeria/.

(5) Menstrual Hygiene Practices In Nigeria - Public Health. https://www.publichealth.com.ng/menstrual-hygiene-practices-in-nigeria/.

(6) Menstrual hygiene | UNICEF Nigeria. https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/topics/menstrual-hygiene.

(7) Knowledge and Menstrual Hygiene Practices among Adolescent Female .... https://journaljesbs.com/index.php/JESBS/article/view/1040.

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