Introduction
In Cameroon, many women and girls face serious challenges when it comes to managing their periods. Period poverty remains a widespread issue, as the high cost of sanitary pads makes them inaccessible for a large number of households. On average, a pack of disposable pads costs about 600 CFA (nearly one US dollar), a price that is unaffordable for many families, especially since 52% of Cameroonian women live below the poverty line of $2.15 a day. Because of this, an estimated 70% of women and girls in the country do not have access to safe and reliable sanitary products. Many are forced to use unsafe alternatives such as old rags, newspapers, or leaves, which expose them to infections and other serious health risks. The problem is made worse by harmful cultural beliefs and stigma surrounding menstruation. A recent study revealed that 66.7% of women and girls lack adequate knowledge about menstrual hygiene. Myths and taboos often lead to discriminatory practices for example, the belief that menstruating women are “unclean” and should not cook or take part in social activities.
The Association for Community Awareness (ASCOA) works to address these challenges by improving access to affordable sanitary products, promoting menstrual health education, and breaking the myths and stigma that surround menstruation. Through its efforts, ASCOA aims to create a healthier and more supportive environment for girls and women in Cameroon.
Workshop on Menstrual Hygiene for Teenage Girls
Project Description
As part of its commitment to supporting children, young girls, and women, the Association for Community Awareness (ASCOA) organized a workshop on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) on May 28, 2023, in the Mile 16 Bolifamba community, Buea, South West Region of Cameroon. This activity was part of the global observance of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023, held under the theme “Making menstruation a normal fact of life by 2030.”
The workshop provided teenage girls with essential knowledge on menstrual health, including why women menstruate, how to manage periods safely, and the importance of good menstrual hygiene. At the end of the session, participants received sanitary pads to support the practical application of what they had learned. The training also created a safe space for open discussions to break the stigma and silence that often surrounds menstruation.
Objectives
The main objective of the project was to empower teenage girls with accurate information and resources on menstrual health. By promoting safe and healthy practices, the workshop sought to safeguard their dignity, reduce stigma, and enhance their ability to manage menstruation without shame or risk of infection.
SDGs Concerned
This initiative contributes to:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by promoting safe menstrual practices and reducing health risks.
- SDG 4: Quality Education – by enabling girls to stay in school without interruption caused by poor menstrual management.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – by empowering girls and addressing stigma around menstruation.
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – by linking menstrual hygiene to sanitation and health.
Outcomes / Relevant Data
A total of 68 teenage girls benefited directly from the training. Many of them had limited prior knowledge of menstrual health and faced challenges accessing sanitary products. The activity improved their understanding of menstrual hygiene, equipped them with practical tools, and encouraged confidence in managing their periods with dignity.
Recommendations
- Parents and guardians should actively educate children on menstrual health, supported with accurate information.
- Teachers should be trained to effectively deliver reproductive health education in schools.
- Boys should also be included in menstrual health discussions to help reduce stigma and promote respect for girls.