Each month women experience menstruation or period which is a process by which the uterus sheds tissues from the lining of the uterine which leaves the body through the vagina.

While this is a normal biological process that most women experience, not many women are equipped with the necessary resources and knowledge to properly care for themselves during their period.

Poor menstrual hygiene can have significant health impacts such as urinary tract infections, fungal infections and bacterial infections, that can be costly to treat.

In order to prevent women from experiencing these health complications among others, German-based NGO WASH United recognised World Hygiene Menstrual Day in 2013 to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene.

Since then, Menstrual Hygiene Day has been commemorated on May 28 of each year to raise the issue globally and achieve support for women and girls affected by the lack of sanitization resources.

Period poverty

Several women and girls globally lack the necessary menstrual products such as sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups to care for themselves during their menstruation due to the cost associated with these products.

For the average female, their monthly period may last between two to seven days. This means that several young girls and women cannot go to school and participate in social activities for a maximum of seven days due to the lack of feminine hygiene products.

Ways to promote good menstrual hygiene

• Change your sanitary pads, tampons and menstrual cups regularly atleevery four hours because heavy menstrual flows can cause a rash
• Wash your hands before and after changing menstrual hygiene products
• Take regular showers, at least twice per day
• Dispose used sanitary products properly in sanitary bins
• Avoid using chemical products to wash the vagina because it can lead to an infection instead rinse the vagina thoroughly with water.
• Drink adequate water
• Wear cotton underwear

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