Promoting health and dignity
Local gynecologist educates residents on the importance of menstrual hygiene to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day.
World Menstrual Hygiene Day is an annual awareness day observed on May 28 that aims to bring attention to the importance of menstrual hygiene for women and girls around the world.
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The day serves to break the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation, promote good menstrual hygiene practices, and ensure that women and girls have access to affordable and safe menstrual products, as well as proper sanitation facilities. It also focuses on educating people about menstruation and promoting gender equality, said Eularnia Bok-McMinn, a Fourways-based gynaecologist.
This stigma surrounding menstruation can have profound implications on individuals’ health, education, and overall quality of life. Addressing menstrual hygiene is not just about providing access to products, it’s about fostering a culture of openness, education, and support, added Bok-McMinn.
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Tiamara Andrew, a 16-year-old ambassador for Drive 2 Unite, advocates for ending period poverty through her non-profit organisation Blessing Lives.
“Menstrual hygiene plays a crucial role in women’s reproductive health and overall well-being, and proper menstrual hygiene management can help prevent infections, discomfort, and other complications associated with menstruation.
“Access to menstrual products is a fundamental human right. No one should have to compromise their health and dignity due to a lack of access to these essential items,” said Andrew.
To commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day, Andrew is excited to host her second annual pad drive at Montecasino on June 23. Drive 2 Unite is a charity initiative which forms part of the idle Auto Expo where custom cars, performance cars, muscle cars, and classic cars, are showcased with hopes of raising awareness around period poverty.
The idle Auto Expo Drive 2 Unite sanitary pad drive aims to create awareness and attract donations, “Menstrual hygiene is essential for the health, education, and dignity of young girls. Providing proper products and education empowers them to attend school confidently and lead healthier, more dignified lives.”
For ways to get involved in the upcoming idle Drive 2 Unite sanitary pad drive, please contact 061 448 5524 or email tiamara@blessinglivessa.org.
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