As part of activities marking World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026, the Advocacy Officer of the CSAAE Civil Society Centre, Blessing Iriaka, participated in a one-day menstrual hygiene sensitization outreach aimed at promoting healthy menstrual practices among adolescent girls in selected schools across Imo State.
The outreach provided an opportunity to engage young girls on the importance of menstrual hygiene management, personal cleanliness, reproductive health awareness, and the need to overcome the stigma and misconceptions often associated with menstruation.
In the company of other menstrual hygiene activists and advocates, three schools were visited for this sensitization exercise: The Fountain High School, Obibiezena; John F. Kennedy Secondary School, Obibiezena; and St. Theresa Secondary School, Alike Obowo.
During the interactive sessions, students were educated on proper menstrual hygiene practices, including the use and disposal of sanitary materials, maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation, and seeking accurate information about reproductive health. The discussions also encouraged girls to view menstruation as a natural biological process rather than a source of shame or discrimination.
Speaking during the sensitization exercise, Miss Blessing Iriaka, emphasized the need for continuous awareness creation and support for adolescent girls, particularly those in underserved communities, to ensure that no girl is denied dignity, confidence, or educational opportunities because of menstruation.
“Many young girls see menstruation as a curse, not realizing that it is a natural and beautiful part of growing into womanhood. Some are shamed for starting early, which makes them withdraw and view menstruation as something that takes away their innocence. In many cases, their male peers mock or stigmatize them for going through a normal biological process this should not be so. We must also sensitize boys on the importance of showing empathy, respect, and support for their sisters and peers during menstruation”
The outreach further reinforced the importance of collective efforts in promoting gender equality, safeguarding the rights of girls, and creating supportive environments where young people can access accurate health information.
CSAAE remains committed to advancing advocacy initiatives that promote human rights, gender equity, health awareness, and the overall well-being of vulnerable populations within communities.