The importance of menstrual hygiene cannot be overemphasized. It is an important aspect of women's health that impacts not only the lives of individuals but also broader communities across the African continent.

The lack of access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products forces young girls to use unsafe alternatives. This not only poses serious health risks such as infections and other reproductive health issues, but also leads to discomfort and humiliation, which impacts their self-confidence and interrupts daily activities.

Period Poverty and Impact

In many African countries, menstrual hygiene products are considered a luxury[1]. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) refers to period poverty as the struggle that many low-income women and girls face while trying to afford menstrual products which not only refer to menstrual sanitary pads but the pain medication and undergarments[2].

The United Nations estimates that one in ten girls in Sub-Saharan Africa miss school during their menstrual cycle, which can account for up to 20 per cent of the school year^[3]. The stigma surrounding menstruation worsens this problem. 

In many cultures in Africa, menstruation is still taboo and often indicates readiness for marriage at an early age which prevents women from reaching their full potential and participating in social activities[4]. Girls also often skip school during their periods because they fear humiliation, which significantly affects their education.

Educational and Social Impact

Tackling menstrual hygiene is not just about providing sanitary towels. It's about education and breaking the silence that surrounds menstruation and women’s health in general. Comprehensive menstrual hygiene education should be part of everyday conversations, and everyone must strive to create a safe and supportive environment. Girls and boys alike should also learn that menstruation is a natural biological process to dispel the myths and reduce the stigma surrounding this topic.

Initiatives and Solutions

Improving safe and accessible spaces where young girls can go is equally critical. Through everyday partnerships between corporations, governments, communities, and NGOs - the basic needs of these young and underprivileged women can be met. 

It is crucial for community leaders, including men, to be involved in discussions about menstruation to foster a culture of openness and support. By normalising conversations around menstruation, barriers can be broken down and these conversations will ensure that no girl or woman feels ashamed or isolated because of her period.

The economic benefits of investing in menstrual hygiene are considerable. Women who can manage their menstruation with dignity and comfort are more likely to participate fully in the workforce, contributing to their families, communities, and economic growth.

In conclusion, menstrual hygiene is a critical issue that interconnects with health, education, gender equality, and economic development. It is important to break the silence, dispel the myths, and take concrete steps to ensure that menstruation does not hinder the potential of any girl or woman in Africa to become who they want to be. 

What Bayer does in the women’s health space

Bayer in South East Africa is aggressively identifying and prioritising unmet needs in the areas of menopause, gynaecological problems, reproductive health, and contraception. This is accomplished through education activities and raising knowledge about hormonal replacement therapies and modern forms of contraception. To guarantee access to even the most isolated and underprivileged areas and to contribute towards reducing period poverty, Bayer collaborates with key non-profit organisations, patient advocacy groups, and healthcare providers, and boosts family planning information and usage through various digital channels. 

For more information visit: https://www.yourlifenow.co.za/en/your-questions/answers-to-your-top-menstruation-and-period-questions or Bayer in South East Africa.