World Menstrual Hygiene Day is celebrated all over the world on 28 May.
The day is celebrated with an aim to raise awareness and change negative stigmas and norms surrounding menstruation and menstrual hygiene.
This is so that all women, young and old, can feel empowered to manage their periods with confidence, hygienically and without any embarrassment.
Menstrual health in South Africa
- According to Global Citizen organisation, half of South Africa’s population is living under the poverty line of R992 per month which means that 3.7 million girls are unable to afford sanitary pads.
- A research conducted by the University of Stellenbosch found that 30 per cent of learners in South Africa are missing school while on their periods.
Myths and facts about periods
Myth: You can’t go swimming or participate in any form of exercise.
Fact: You can go swimming, do sports and take part in PE lessons plus exercise can help to relieve cramps. If you do go swimming, consider using tampons or menstrual cups and change them regularly.
Myth: Everyone can tell when you’re on your period.
Fact: Unless you choose to tell them, no one will know.
Getting your periods at school: tips on how to manage and get through your periods
- If you start your period unexpectedly:
Periods can come early or late, so don’t panic if they do. Carry some extra tampons or pads (and even spare knickers) in your bag – just in case. If you run out or don’t have any, ask a friend, the school nurse or a teacher. Avoid using unhygienic alternatives such as rags or cloths.
- What to use and how often to change a sanitary product:
You can manage your period with sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups – choose one that keeps you comfortable. Change your product regularly, to avoid a build up of bacteria and infection – four hours for a pad, two to six hours for a tampon.
- Find out how period friendly your school is:
Not every school is period-friendly. While some schools will have free-for-all stacks of tampons and pads in bathrooms and ibuprofen available upon request in case of cramps, others might be much more limiting. Know where and if the school stocks period supplies in case you (or a friend) need an emergency pad or tampon in the future.
- Bonus tip: Rest and catch up on sleep.
You might get drowsy and feel dull during your period. Relax – this is just your body’s way of telling you to rest as your period goes on. You can nap after school or work, read in bed, indulge your love for sweets and chocolate, and generally doing all the things that you don’t have the time for otherwise.
Most importantly, know that periods are normal and are a part of life, there is no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed about your period.
Related articles:
https://www.citizen.co.za/rosebank-killarney-gazette/lnn/733792/menstrual-hygiene-day-aims-break-taboos/
