Menstruation, a natural bodily function, presents significant hurdles for women and girls across various regions, including Eastern Uganda, due to socio-cultural, economic, and infrastructural barriers. Despite efforts by Right Path to promote menstrual hygiene management (MHM), numerous challenges persist, affecting the health, education, and overall well-being of females in the area.
A major issue in Eastern Uganda is the limited availability of menstrual hygiene products. Data shows that sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups are often either too expensive or inaccessible in rural areas, leading women and girls to use makeshift materials like soil, mattress scraps, rags, leaves, or banana fibers. These practices not only pose health risks but also worsen feelings of shame and embarrassment, reinforcing menstrual stigma.
Furthermore, cultural beliefs contribute to the difficulties faced by females in Eastern Uganda. Research suggests that menstruation is often viewed as impure, resulting in social ostracism and discrimination. Many girls are discouraged from attending school during their periods, causing high rates of absenteeism and dropouts, which in turn hinders educational opportunities and perpetuates cycles of poverty and gender inequality.
Inadequate sanitation facilities exacerbate these challenges, especially in schools and communities. Studies indicate that many schools lack clean latrines with proper disposal facilities for menstrual waste. As a result, girls struggle to manage their periods hygienically, leading to missed school days and social discomfort.
Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Challenges:
Education and Awareness: Right Path has introduced the Girlcare quiz game in schools to provide accurate information to both genders, dispel myths, promote understanding, and facilitate open communication about menstruation, puberty, and sexual health. This aims to challenge cultural norms that inhibit discussions about menstruation and promote openness and acceptance.
Access to Menstrual Hygiene Products: Right Path is ensuring access to affordable menstrual hygiene products through its menstrual hygiene kit, promoting a shift towards eco-friendly sanitary wear.
Menstrual Hygiene Management Training: Training programs for girls are offered on proper menstrual hygiene management practices, including the hygienic use and disposal of sanitary products.
Improvement of WASH Facilities: Right Path is responsible for upgrading Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools by installing locks on latrine doors and maintaining cleanliness to ensure the privacy and dignity of girls.
Support for Orphans: Additional support and guidance are provided for orphaned girls, acknowledging their increased vulnerability and potential lack of maternal figures for guidance during puberty.
Addressing Stigma: Through initiatives like the Girlcare quiz game, Right Path raises awareness to combat the stigma surrounding menstruation, educating boys, teachers, and community members to foster understanding and support for menstruating girls.
Policy Implementation: Advocacy efforts are made for policies at the government and school levels that prioritize menstrual hygiene management and ensure the provision of necessary resources and facilities.
Addressing menstruation through the Girlcare quiz game offers a vibrant, enjoyable, and inclusive approach that appeals to people of every gender.
In conclusion, tackling menstrual challenges in Eastern Uganda requires a comprehensive approach and collaboration with other implementing agencies. By improving access to menstrual hygiene products, challenging cultural norms, and enhancing sanitation facilities, women and girls can manage their periods safely and confidently, ultimately advancing gender equality and social development in the region.
