The Lagos State Health District IV has launched an initiative to tackle period poverty and reduce menstrual-related absenteeism among schoolgirls. As part of its school health programme, the district is providing hygiene education and distributing menstrual products to students in public schools across Lagos Mainland, Yaba, Surulere, Apapa, and Lagos Island. This programme aims to educate students on menstrual hygiene and help girls remain healthy and comfortable during their periods.
The programme, which began at Lagos Mainland Junior Secondary School in Yaba, included eyesight screening and health and wellness checks for students. Corrective glasses were provided for those who required them. Dr. Abimbola Bowale, Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District IV, stated that the initiative seeks to change attitudes towards menstruation and encourage support for girls during their periods. He emphasized that menstruation is a natural experience and not a disease, and therefore, should not be stigmatized.
Dr. Bowale noted that educating students about menstrual hygiene can have a positive impact on their homes and communities. The district is providing both disposable and reusable menstrual hygiene packs to students as part of its efforts to address period poverty and improve menstrual hygiene. Dr. Oludolapo Shotunde, Director of Medical Services and Disease Control, Lagos State Health District IV, said some girls from low-income families resort to using tissue paper and rags during menstruation due to lack of access to sanitary products.
This often leads to discomfort and school absenteeism. To address this issue, the district is encouraging girls to use reusable sanitary pads, which can last for about 18 months when properly maintained. Each beneficiary receives two to three pads, along with hand hygiene wipes and disposable pads. The students are also taught how to wash, dry, and maintain the reusable pads. Dr. Shotunde emphasized the importance of proper hygiene during menstruation and urged schools to provide functional toilets and running water.
Glory Assam, Chief Operating Officer of Alora Pads, a company producing reusable sanitary pads, stated that the pads are made from layers of fabric, including organic cotton and a leak-proof layer. She advised users to wash the pads with mild soap, dry them under the sun, and iron them where possible before reuse. According to Assam, the reusable pads can last between 18 months and three years, making them a cost-effective option for women and girls affected by period poverty.
The initiative has received support from various stakeholders, who recognize the importance of addressing period poverty and promoting menstrual hygiene. By providing access to menstrual products and education, the Lagos State Health District IV aims to empower girls to manage their periods with confidence and dignity. The programme is part of the district's regular school health programme, covering public primary and secondary schools in Lagos Mainland, Yaba, Surulere, Apapa, and Lagos Island.
Overall, the initiative seeks to promote a culture of menstrual hygiene and support girls in managing their periods with confidence and dignity. By addressing period poverty and providing education on menstrual hygiene, the Lagos State Health District IV aims to reduce menstrual-related absenteeism and promote the overall well-being of schoolgirls.
Key points
- The Lagos State Health District IV has launched an initiative to tackle period poverty and reduce menstrual-related absenteeism among schoolgirls.
- The programme provides hygiene education and distributes menstrual products to students in public schools across Lagos Mainland, Yaba, Surulere, Apapa, and Lagos Island.
- The initiative promotes the use of reusable sanitary pads, which can last for about 18 months when properly maintained.
