MENSTRUAL HYGIENE, A KEY TO OVERALL WELLBEING

"I know it's not healthy, but I use pieces of old clothes during my period".

"My monthly flow comes but I have nothing to manage it with".

"At my age, I can't use sanitary pads".

"Sanitary pads are for the rich kids and ladies".

These and many more responses are what I got from some secondary young girls in a remote village in Uyo local government area, Akwaibom state.

These sincere responses got me really teary, and I said to myself, do young girls really have to go through such an ordeal while menstruating?.

Immediately, a few like minds and I got into an interesting conversation and boom we birthed an idea, "Reusable pads for 100 girls"

This at first seemed not feasible considering the finances involved and sponsors weren't forthcoming.

All thanks to the association of lady Pharmacists in Akwaibom state, for showing interest and supporting the initiative.

At the tail end, close to 250 young girls received free reusable pads, pants, toiletries and disinfectants.

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Reusable pads??

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Isn't that unhygienic? My curious reader is already asking.

Ohkayy buddy, sit tight and let's discuss!!!

As the name implies, Reusable pads are sanitary materials to conveniently absorb your menstrual flow after which it can be washed and used again.
In simpler terms, you could use these pads again but following the outlined guidelines and principles on menstrual hygiene for reusable pads.

Yes, reusable pads are very much hygienic and completely recommended by the world health organization. You just have to use it right.

Reusable pads are made of cotton materials you can easily wash off, after washing they are dried in "drying bags" so it doesn't fall off and get contaminated.

Increase Prices of the conventional pads in Nigeria is alarming and it's becoming a huge problem to young girls who cannot afford.

Poor menstrual knowledge and access to sanitary products have been proposed as barriers to menstrual health and school attendance. In response, interventions targeting these needs have seen increasing implementation in public and private sectors. So, young girls who cannot afford the conventional pads can safely and comfortably make do with the reusable pads.

Interesting features about reusable pads!!!

• They are made with very soft and comfortable cotton materials.

• They are cost effective

• They are easy to wear

• They are washable

• They can get dry very easily and are iron-able.

• They are very hygienic and completely recommended.

• They can absorb menstrual blood so that you do not get stained for about 8 hours.

• They are made such that it comfortably clips to your panties, stays fixed in position and doesn't detach.

• They are made very light such that you can move around freely and comfortably.

• They are made and produced under hygienic conditions and following WHO standards for sanitary towels.

Buy your reusable pads from ideal and approved centers for manufacture in your locality.

My dearest young girls out there, if you are still using pieces of clothes, cotton wool, tissue paper and the likes to control your menstrual flow, please have a change of mind. Reusable pads are now on the rescue, and are very very affordable after which they can be used again.

Steps in using reusable pads

📌Carefully remove the pad from its pack.

📌Place it neatly on your pants and clip it overboard such that it's firm and in position.

📌After use, carefully remove the pad and soak in water to wash off blood.

📌Use mild antiseptic soap to thoroughly wash off all blood stains.

📌Sun-dry using its "drying bag" until the pad is completely dry.

📌Iron the reusable pad after sun-drying.

📌Your pad is ready for reuse!

Reusable pads don't replace the conventional pads in the market.
They simply augment while reducing cost for the majority.

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Menstrual Hygiene

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Menstrual hygiene is an important aspect of women's health and well-being. It involves maintaining cleanliness and hygiene during the menstrual cycle, in order to prevent infections and maintain overall health.

In addition to using appropriate menstrual products, it is also important to maintain good personal hygiene during the menstrual cycle. This includes washing the genitals regularly with water, changing menstrual products frequently, and practicing good hygiene when changing or disposing of menstrual products.

Another important aspect of menstrual hygiene is the use of appropriate clothing. It is important to wear clean and comfortable clothing during menstruation, and to avoid tight-fitting clothes that may restrict blood flow. It is also important to avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners when washing clothing during menstruation, as these can cause irritation.

Menstrual hygiene also includes being aware of and managing any symptoms that may occur during the menstrual cycle, such as cramps, headaches, and fatigue. These symptoms can be managed through a variety of methods, including over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, and changes in diet and exercise.

It is also important to have access to education and information about menstrual hygiene. This can include information about menstrual products, personal hygiene, and managing symptoms, as well as information about reproductive health and rights.

In many parts of the world, menstruation is a taboo, and this lack of knowledge has enslaved many girls. We are in the 21st century, so do away with feelings of embarrassment during menstruation.

You are a strong woman, it's your pride so go about your daily activity like nothing has happened.

Thank you for reading!!!