Dear men, you must act as partners in combating menstrual stigma

Period poverty is described as the lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual hygiene education, clean toilets, hand washing and waste management facilities. In other words, period poverty occurs when girls and women lack access to sanitary products due to financial constraints. In our quest to address adolescent menstrual health and end period poverty, we at ACLAD, together with other stakeholders and supporters ensure prompt and timely supply of sanitary towels to needy and vulnerable girls. We celebrate the efforts of our unsung heroes who constantly distribute menstrual hygiene products in different parts of Kenya.

It is vital that all who menstruate are provided with the necessary information, resources and support to manage their menstrual needs throughout the lifecycle- from menarche (first occurrence of menstruation) to menopause (a point in time 12 months after a woman’s last period). But, menstrual health and hygiene as well as efforts to end period poverty are not just a woman-led initiative. Men also play a crucial role in ending period poverty. How, you ask?

Here are some ways in which men can end period poverty:

• Cognizance: Men can educate themselves and others about period poverty, helping to destigmatize menstruation and advocate for better access to menstrual products. In addition, men can challenge harmful stereotypes and attitudes surrounding menstruation, thereby promoting respect and understanding.

• Supporting Policy Changes: Men can advocate for policies that address period poverty, such as providing free or affordable menstrual products in public places and schools. (Champion for free sanitary products in dispensers like the ones for condoms. Why are condoms free and sanitary pads not, yet having sex is a choice and having periods is not????)

• Financial Support: Men can donate to organizations working to combat period poverty or fundraise for menstrual products.

• Creating Inclusive Spaces: Men can create inclusive environments where women and young ladies feel comfortable discussing their needs and seeking support.

• Product Innovation: Men can support or engage in the development of innovative solutions, such as reusable menstrual products, to make them more accessible and sustainable.

• Supporting Partners: Men can support their partners, friends, and family members who menstruate by understanding their needs and offering practical support.

By actively participating in these ways, men can contribute significantly to ending period poverty and promoting menstrual equity. Let us end period stigma and work towards making sanitary products free and accessible to all girls and women. End the stigma.

If you would like to be part of our journey in making a difference for the girl-child and keep her in school especially on “those days” when she has her periods, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on info@aclad-hq.org to find out how you can help reduce period poverty, and make a difference one child at a time.

By Catherine Muteithia, ACLAD Communications and Research Operations Officer