High school students. [Photo/the-star.co.ke]
Menstruation is often viewed as a sign that a woman has come of age. While some celebrate it, in some parts of Kenya, girls go through tough times during their period as the biological process is surrounded by ridiculous myths bordering on the absurd
Menstruation is one of the signs that a girl is blossoming into a woman, but in some parts of Kenya, the biological process comes with shame and is considered a taboo.
It is something that is talked about in hushed tones and a girl who enters this phase of development is cautioned against “playing with boys” to avoid getting pregnant.
Even in school, teachers avoid the topic perhaps just throwing a word or two about the taboo topic. If it is a male teacher, then you are guaranteed that he will not even touch the topic with a ten-foot pole.
Even for those who have access to sanitary towels, the process is not easier. When it comes to disposal of the used menstrual materials whether modern or otherwise, the problem is magnified. Since the sanitary towels have polythene, throwing them in the latrines is hugely discouraged, as they are non-biodegradable. Burning them is the most prolific method of disposing of them, but the myth has it that the act will leave one barren.
One is looked upon as dirty and the stigma associated with the natural act takes psychological effect on them. Why would one waste water on bathing twice a day? Water is a precious commodity and wasting is equivalent to sin.
The biggest problem lies within raising awareness first to the girls for them to understand the importance of menstrual health management, then to the entire community to understand how it affects the community at large and not just women.