Group Seeks End To Discrimination Against Women During Menstruation

 

By Solomon Odeniyi

A Non-Governmental Organization promoting menstrual health, Jesutofunmi Fayemi Foundation, has lamented the continued stigmatisation against women during their menstrual period.

According to the convener, Ms Jesutofunmi Fayemi, some cultural and religious beliefs have contributed to the stigmatisation in many parts of the country.

Fayemi spoke during Menstrual Health and Hygiene Programme, held at the School for Persons With Special Needs in Osogbo, State of Osun on Sunday.

According to her, while some cultural practices are giving way to modernity, the discrimination against women during their menstrual period should also make way.

She stated that the experience of teenagers who have fallen victims of stigmatization was the reason they were seeking an end to such practice.

Fayemi said: “The girl child is so important in the society and we want to ensure that they get proper education in all the areas of their lives that matter the most. One of such areas is menstruation. We understand the stigmatisation against the girl child while on their menstrual flow. A lot of them have been narrating their experiences to us, which have not been palatable. It is because of the experiences we seek an end to it.

“Cultural and religious beliefs have also contributed to this. In some places when you are menstruating, you can’t attend church services. Also in some cultures, you are expected to stay indoors; you are restricted from cooking or touching your husband’s clothes. 

“People are still having this mentality about menstruation, whereas menstruation is just a normal thing that happens to females, a lot should be put in place to help female menstruating.

“Menstruation is a normal part of the female body system and if you don’t menstruate as a lady, you can’t give birth. No one came to this world without his/her passing through the stage of menstruation; hence, I see no need for the stigmatization.”

She also called on the government to pay attention to the protection and promotion of menstrual hygiene among women.