Poor menstrual hygiene can pose serious health risks such as urinary tract infections and reproductive issues, which can lead to future birth complications and infertility. This explains why the Kemak Foundation for Enhancing Sustainable Livelihood conducted a Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Campaign among girls in Ebonyi State.
The programme provided sanitary pads to approximately 143 girls from seven secondary schools.
Chinaza Ezeoha, a Nurse from the National Obstetrics Fistula Center Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, spoke during the program and encouraged the girls to be deliberate about their menstrual hygiene in order to avoid the complications associated with poor menstrual hygiene, which can have a negative impact on their livelihood and happiness.
Stressing the importance of proper menstrual cycle calculation and phases, Mrs. Nnenna Uche-Nwachi, from the Girls Guide Organization of Nigeria, Afikpo Division, advised the girls not to be careless but to be sensitive so that they can carry themselves with pride and dignity. Mr. Frederick Oko-Otu, a Research Associate with KEMAK Foundation, discussed the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) and prevention strategies. He emphasized the importance of seeking support from the appropriate sources. Friends of Frederick Oko-Otu sponsored the event as part of his birthday celebrations. Mrs. Ibe Helen Ezinne, another speaker, demonstrated how to calculate menstrual periods in a very practical manner. Faith Adaeze spoke about how to use and maintain menstrual kits, as well as general hygiene practices. Esther Omeri talked about common menstrual symptoms like cramps and how to manage them.
Earlier, Dr Makuachukwu Ojide, Executive Director of the Kemak Foundation, stated that the outreach is part of the organization’s public health promotion programme. He believes that promoting girls’ menstrual hygiene and combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) are both shared responsibilities. He thanked the facilitators and other collaborators for ensuring the success of this important outreach program. Makuachukwu Ojide called for more commitment and investment from all stakeholders towards ensuring the end of poor menstrual hygiene and the associated health risks among girls.
