Empowering Girls through Menstrual Hygiene
_Together We Can End Period Poverty_
As we observe World Menstrual Hygiene Day today, May 28th, we recognize the importance of promoting awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among girls and women in Edo State. As the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, I, Mrs. Edesili Anani Okpebholo, believe empowering girls with knowledge and skills related to menstrual hygiene is crucial for their overall well-being and development.
Menstruation is a natural part of life; however, many girls and women in our state face challenges in accessing sanitary products, clean water, and adequate facilities. This can lead to health risks, social exclusion, and missed opportunities. We must break the silence surrounding menstruation and challenge existing norms.
Education on menstrual hygiene is vital for girls to understand their bodies, manage their menstruation safely, and maintain their dignity. By providing accurate information and resources, we can help them adopt proper hygiene practices, prevent health issues, and build their confidence.
In Edo State, we have been promoting menstrual hygiene awareness through partnerships with organizations like the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN). Our efforts are focused on reaching girls in rural areas who may lack access to sanitary products and appropriate facilities. We aim to ensure that every girl has the knowledge and resources necessary to manage her menstruation confidently.
On this World Menstrual Hygiene Day, we call on all stakeholders to join us in enhancing menstrual health and hygiene awareness in Edo State. Together, we can:
- *Promote Awareness:* Educate girls, women, and communities about the importance of menstrual hygiene.
- *Improve Access:* Provide access to sanitary products, clean water, and proper facilities for girls and women.
- *Challenge Stigma:* Break the silence surrounding menstruation and confront societal norms that perpetuate stigma.
By working together, we can empower the girls and women of Edo State to understand their bodies, make informed choices, and live with dignity.
Let us normalize discussions around menstrual flow and hygiene, allowing our women and girls to embrace their natural processes with confidence.
Happy World Menstrual Hygiene Day!
