LAGOS ( Sundiata Post) – Dr. Igot Ofem, Acting Director, Centre for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (CRPSGBV), has appealed to girls and women to pay close attention to their menstrual hygiene.
Ofem made the plea at the celebration of International Menstrual Hygiene Day organised by the centre in Lagos State University (LASU) and Smile With Me Foundation, a NGO on Wednesday, Lagos.
The theme for 2024 was: “Together for a Period-Friendly World”.She said that girls needed to pay attention to their menstrual hygiene in order to help their academics and mental health.
The acting director noted that poor menstrual health and hygiene undermined fundamental rights for women, girls and people who menstruate, exacerbating social and economic inequalities.“
Insufficient resources to manage menstruation, along with exclusion and shame, also erode human dignity.“Gender inequality, extreme poverty, humanitarian crises, and harmful traditions can further amplify deprivation and stigma among the girls and women.“
I encourage all the girls and women present at this programme to pay close attention to the menstrual hygiene fireside chats, which are the highlights of the day,”
Ofem said.In her opening remarks, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice-Chancellor, LASU said that menstrual health had a profound impact on not only physical well-being but also academic performance, mental health and social participation.
Olatunji-Bello, represented by Prof. Oluwatoyin Enikuomehin, Director, LASU DICT,
said that the theme aligned closely with the university’s commitment to inclusivity, equity and students’ well-being.“
The university recognises the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all.“
We need to debunk myths and negative attitudes towards menstruation but rather promote education and awareness about menstrual health.“Also,
we need to provide support, innovation and research in menstrual health and hygiene,
and involve males in understanding the necessary care and needs of females during their period,” she said. reports that sanitary pads and a book, “BLOOMING FLOW,”
which is a young girl’s guide on puberty written by Dr. Abosede Lewu were given to about 100 secondary school girls in attendance.(NAN)