NIGERIA: Girls Speak Out on the Stigma and Struggles of Menstruation

Menstruation remains a taboo subject for many girls in Nigeria until they open up to an adult they trust: the school nurse.

These stories highlight the importance of comprehensive menstrual health education and support within our schools.

Menstruation is a pivotal aspect of adolescent girls' lives, yet it remains shrouded in silence, stigma, and misinformation. As a school nurse in Nigeria, I've encountered a spectrum of experiences among students — each shaped by cultural beliefs, health challenges, and access to information. These stories highlight the importance of comprehensive menstrual health education and support within our schools.

During healthcare sessions with my secondary school students, I received their consent to share the following stories. 

Chika's first encounter with menstruation was marked by confusion and fear. At 12, she experienced her first period without any prior knowledge or preparation. Her mother, unaware of the importance of early education on this topic, had never discussed menstruation with her. When Chika got her first period, she thought she was seriously ill and kept it to herself. It was only when she confided in a friend that she learned about menstruation. This lack of preparation led to anxiety and a sense of isolation during her initial menstrual cycles.

Amina's experience was marked by severe menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea. Each month, she endures intense abdominal cramps that often incapacitate her, leading to frequent admissions to the school clinic. These episodes can last up to three days, causing her to miss classes and fall behind in her studies. Despite seeking medical attention, the pain remains a persistent challenge, affecting her academic performance and overall well-being.

In contrast, Ngozi's family adheres to a longstanding tradition of using large tissue paper as menstrual absorbents. Her mother insists on this practice, believing it to be the best method. Despite my efforts to educate Ngozi about modern sanitary products and the importance of hygiene, Ngozi remains steadfast in her family's customs. This situation highlights the impact of cultural practices on menstrual health choices and the challenges of implementing change.

Blessing's caregiver, who looks after the 12-year-old girl living with cerebral palsy, didn't realize when Blessing's period started. One day, noticing her stained uniform, the caregiver helped clean her up and provided a sanitary pad. Blessing stayed home for five days afterward, though her mother confirmed she was fine when checked on.

Bimbo said her mother has imposed strict dietary restrictions during her menstruation, prohibiting the consumption of groundnuts and sugar. According to her mother, these foods can cause menstrual blood to become heavy and emit an unpleasant odor. Bimbo finds these restrictions burdensome and dislikes the days she menstruates due to the associated dietary limitations and the stigma surrounding her period. She asked, 

“What is the relationship between eating groundnuts and sugar on menstrual health? Other girls eat groundnuts and sugar, too. Why shouldn't I?”

Ifeoma's story is one of silent suffering. She experiences irregular menstrual cycles and often uses unsanitary materials due to financial constraints. Her condition has led to recurrent infections and a sense of shame, as she is reluctant to discuss her situation with anyone except the school nurse. Ifeoma's experience highlights the intersection of poverty, a lack of education, and inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products.

These diverse experiences reveal a common thread. As a school nurse, I believe every girl deserves accurate information, access to safe menstrual products, and a supportive environment where menstruation is met with understanding instead of shame.

I urge school leaders, parents, and policymakers to prioritize menstrual health education, provide free or subsidized sanitary products, and create safe spaces where girls can ask questions without fear of judgment. Our girls are ready to speak—now we must listen, support, and take concrete action to ensure no girl suffers in silence.

STORY AWARDS

This story was published as part of World Pulse's Story Awards program. We believe every woman has a story to share, and that the world will be a better place when women are heard.