A Social Worker and Gender Advocate with Wellspring Outreach and Support Foundation, Adelayo Ojo-Nkom, has called for improved awareness and education on menstrual hygiene as the world commemorates Menstrual Hygiene Day.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Ojo-Nkom stressed that proper menstrual hygiene is essential in preventing infections and other health complications among women and girls.
She noted that every woman needs proper education on menstrual hygiene, describing menstruation as a representation of life.
‘Menstruation represents life, and every woman deserves adequate knowledge about menstrual hygiene’, she said.
Ojo-Nkom further advised girls and women to understand the right menstrual products to use during their periods to maintain good health and hygiene.
According to her, some girls experience menstrual pain during their cycle, adding that medications such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can help ease the pain and enable them to carry out their daily activities comfortably.
She also warned ladies against leaving sanitary pads unchanged for long hours, noting that poor menstrual hygiene could lead to vaginal or urinary tract infections.
She explained that sanitary pads should be changed regularly, preferably after six hours of use, to maintain cleanliness and prevent infections.
The gender advocate also encouraged women and girls to embrace menstruation positively and avoid shame or stigma attached to it.
‘A lady who does not menstruate cannot give birth, so menstruation should be embraced and treated as a natural part of life’, she added.
World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on 28 May to promote awareness on menstrual health, encourage open discussions, and highlight its importance to gender equality, education, and human rights.
