An ongoing survey in Changamwe and Jomvu, Mombasa County has revealed that young women have a challenge engaging in menstrual health and hygiene discussions with men.
The study conducted by James Atito popularly known as ‘the period man’ for his menstrual health advocacy, involved 144 households with adolescents girls.
From the survey, only 16.4 per cent of young women were comfortable discussing their menstrual health issues with men.
I believe when men become actively involved in matters menstrual, the future of our girls will be secured
James Atito
46.5 per cent of the study group felt that men should learn to offer support to women on maters menstrual.
Stigma
Atito says the taboos and stigma surrounding the menstrual issues need to be a thing of the past.
“I believe when men become actively involved in matters menstrual, the future of our girls will be secured,” he said.
He further added: “access to sanitary pads for young girls should be a right and people should realize these are matters that need not to be considered taboo. I believe men should be brought on board to help end the stigma that still surrounds the issue.”
While making his presentation at the Reducing HIV in Adolescent and Youth (RHAY) Conference 2022, he added that 88.1 per cent of adolescents experience pain during their periods according to his ongoing survey.
A further 28.9 per cent of the girls admitted to having missed school because of their periods with 36.5 per cent saying they feel embarrassed during their periods.