Menstrual Hygiene Education and Awareness

Growing up in Ghana, I observed how menstruation was surrounded by silence, discomfort, and stigma. Many girls were left without the knowledge they needed to understand their own bodies. The result? Shame, confusion, and in some cases, missed opportunities to attend school or participate fully in life.

As a proud member of Amnesty International Ghana, I joined a team of passionate volunteers to organize a menstrual hygiene awareness session at Nyamedua Children’s Home on World Menstrual Hygiene Day. Our goal was simple but urgent — to break the silence around menstruation and empower girls through education and support.

Nyamedua Children’s Home cares for children who come from vulnerable backgrounds or who have lost parental care. Like many girls in underserved communities, the girls there face barriers related to menstrual health — from limited access to sanitary products to a lack of proper information. We wanted to help change that reality, even in a small way.

During our session, we created a safe and respectful environment where the girls could learn openly. We educated them about the menstrual cycle, how to practice good hygiene, and how to properly use and dispose of sanitary pads. We also addressed the harmful myths and taboos that often surround menstruation — such as the idea that periods are dirty or that girls should isolate themselves when menstruating.

Although the girls were mostly quiet, their attentiveness and focus showed how important the session was. Sometimes, it’s not about what is said, but what is absorbed. You could see they were listening, learning, and beginning to understand that menstruation is not something to be ashamed of — it is a normal, healthy part of life.

I was enthusiastic in making an impact in pushing for change ❤️