The importance of menstrual hygiene education in schools

Menstruation is a natural process, yet stigma and myths keep many young people confused and ashamed. With over 300 million women menstruating daily according to World Bank Group, it's vital we normalise the conversation. Early menstrual hygiene education for all genders, especially in schools. It breaks taboos, builds empathy, and promotes lifelong health.

Let’s explore how schools can lead the change toward awareness and dignity for all.

Understanding menstruation and menstrual hygiene management

Menstruation is a natural biological process where the uterine lining (endometrium) is shed through the vagina when pregnancy doesn’t occur. This cycle, which lasts 3-7 days, is part of a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle.

It’s important for women and adolescent girls to understand this process to adopt healthy and hygienic practices without discomfort or fear. Managing menstrual hygiene includes using clean menstrual materials, changing them in private as needed, washing with soap and water, and having access to proper disposal facilities.

Importance of menstrual hygiene education in schools

School is a child’s second home, where the foundation for their future is built. While the importance of such education is undeniable, here are the key values children gain when they are taught about menstrual hygiene.

• Improved access to education
  Inadequate sanitary facilities can hinder a girl’s educational journey, often causing irregular attendance or even leading to dropout. Schools that provide female-friendly infrastructure and include menstruation-related education in the curriculum, targeting at both girls and boys can help reduce stigma and lead to better educational and health outcome.
• Improved healthcare
  When girls are educated about proper menstrual hygiene, they reduce their risk of infections, which in turn supports their overall reproductive health thus protecting them from future infertility and birth complications.
• Encouraging gender equality
  Educating only girls or women about menstrual hygiene isn't enough to bring about real change, as their voices are often overlooked due to the indifference of the men around them. However, when both girls and boys are educated together, it fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment paving the way for true gender equality.

Role of schools in fostering menstrual hygiene education

Schools play a pivotal role in normalising conversations around menstruation and ensuring access to menstrual hygiene, shaping a healthier and more inclusive future for girls.

• Separate washrooms with adequate facilities
  Merely providing separate washrooms for girls in schools does not guarantee their usage. For these spaces to truly serve their purpose, they must also ensure privacy, cleanliness, safety, and a consistent supply of water. Additionally, equipping washrooms with covered dustbins is essential for the safe and dignified disposal of sanitary napkins or tampons.
• Free sanitary napkin bank
  A key barrier contributing to period poverty is the lack of access to affordable menstrual products, which often disrupts a girl's education. Schools in underserved regions urgently require free sanitary napkin banks. Establishing these banks demands a collaborative effort between school authorities, community members, and government stakeholders to ensure that no girl is held back due to menstruation.
• Incorporating menstrual hygiene education as a part of curriculum
  Incorporating menstrual hygiene education into the school curriculum helps break taboos and normalise menstruation from an early age. It empowers both girls and boys with accurate information, fostering empathy and gender sensitivity.
• Organising interactive workshops
  Organising interactive workshops creates a safe space for both boys and girls to openly discuss menstrual hygiene. This open dialogue helps bridge the information gap and dismantle the social stigma surrounding menstruation.

CRY UK’s role in fostering menstrual education

• Educating girls and adolescents through collectives: To combat period shame and challenge social stigmas, CRY UK educates children and adolescents on healthy menstrual practices, while encouraging them to speak up for themselves and advocate for other girls through the formation of Adolescent Collectives.
• Organising sessions and workshops for adolescents: CRY UK conducts interactive sessions and workshops that use comic books and illustrations to make learning about menstruation fun and engaging, while also encouraging open conversations between mothers and adolescents.
• Collaborating with school authorities: CRY UK works closely with school authorities, community leaders, and government stakeholders to ensure access to clean, safe, and private toilets for children. They also help facilitate sanitary napkin banks in underserved areas where such support is urgently needed.

CRY UK empowering children to take their stand

Read how Saraswathi broke societal norms and championed period education for girls in her community.

Read full story: Saraswathi’s Advocacy for Menstruation Awareness is Changing Lives!

Conclusion

While efforts by the government and charities have helped raise community awareness about menstrual hygiene, the journey is far from over. With your continued support, we can make a lasting difference and build a world where every girl has access to proper menstrual hygiene education. Donate now to help create a brighter, healthier future for all children.