BY ROBERT KASUMBA
Menstrual hygiene is a critical issue that affects the health and well-being of women and girls worldwide, especially those living in rural areas. In many rural areas, there is lack of access to adequate menstrual hygiene products, facilities, and education, which leads to health challenges, social stigma, and limited opportunities for women and girls.
One of the main challenges faced by women and girls in rural areas is the availability of affordable and accessible menstrual hygiene products. Many women and girls in these areas rely on traditional materials, such as cloth, leaves, and dug holes which are often uncomfortable, unhygienic, difficult to clean, and stigmatizing. These materials often lead to infections, irritation, and other health-related problems. In addition, the lack of access to affordable menstrual hygiene management products can result in girls missing school or work during their menstrual cycle, which can have a significant impact on their education and economic opportunities.
Another challenge is the lack of access to clean and private toilets and washing facilities. Many rural areas lack basic sanitation infrastructure. Women and girls are often forced to use unsanitary facilities or open fields, which can increase their risk of infections and exposure to social stigma and harassment.
To address these challenges, there is a need for increased awareness and education about menstrual hygiene in rural areas. Women and girls need to be informed about the importance of using clean and hygienic menstrual products, as well as the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices during their menstrual cycle. In addition, there is a need for increased access to affordable and sustainable menstrual products, such as reusable sanitary pads that can be washed and reused.
Through its Skybird program, Uganda Red Cross Society is playing a crucial role in improving menstrual hygiene in rural areas of Bulange and Magada Sub- counties in Namutumba District in Eastern Uganda by investing in basic sanitation infrastructure, promoting education and awareness programs, training young girls on how to sew their reusable pads using readily available materials and providing access to affordable and sustainable menstrual products. By addressing these challenges, women and girls in rural areas can manage their menstrual cycle with dignity, safety, and good health, and can attend school.
In conclusion, menstrual hygiene is an important aspect of young girls and women’s health, well-being, and dignity. Reusable pads which are more affordable than conventional ones offer girls in rural areas a hygienic solution for the long term. One pack of reusable pads with 4 pieces can sustain a young girl for 1 year. I, therefore, call upon all stakeholders to support the cause of skilling young girls to make their own pads using readily accessible materials.