There is a certain age where young girls start menstruating, a symbol the womanhood journey has started.
Most people do not understand this is just a normal phase of life.
They perceive it as unclean.
In this era, it's unfortunate that we have myths and misinformation related to periods.
This has left many women feeling stigmatised and unfit for society.
Menstruation is a natural, normal and biological process and a sign of good health.
There have been increased cases of teenagers being looked down upon, affecting their self-esteem.
Some years back, a 14-year-old girl committed suicide after allegedly being ridiculed by her teacher because she was on menses and sadly messed her dress.
According to reports, the teacher commanded the girl to leave the class.
There are many cases in Kenya where teenagers are being stigmatised over their periods but so far no amicable solution has been reached to curb this.
In Kenya, studies have shown that girls who are still in school can miss an average of 4 days of school each month adding up to 20 per cent annually since they face harassment, discrimination and other times maybe lack pads.
Most people discuss the issue of periods in hiding instead of doing it in open places and assuring our girls it is normal and should not affect them.
In some communities, they hardly talk about it, most use words such as “aunt flow” or “shark week” implying they are even ashamed of calling it by the real name.
Lack of access to sanitary towels is also another problem, most of these girls cannot afford them and they use mattresses or cloth materials, which is unhealthy.
The government should at least make them affordable or give them for free.
There could also be cases of stigmatisation at work, where women who experience painful menstruation miss out on work and this does not end well.
However, that should not be the case. Employers should be accommodative and understand that it's not an easy process for most women.
The government should put more effort and creating awareness about menstruation and protect our women from stigmatisation.
Topics revolving around it should be discussed openly even where boys and men are present.
Let's all work together and end the stigmatisation
Student, Rongo University
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
