Schools and Teachers: The Unsung Heroes in the Fight Against Period Poverty

As the back-to-school season approaches, it's a time of excitement and anticipation for most. Yet, for countless girls globally, it's also a time of stress due to period poverty. Beyond school supplies and fresh notebooks, many are worried about how they will manage their monthly cycles. For many, it's not only about access to menstrual products but also the struggle with deep-rooted societal stigmas, limited resources, and a lack of education on the topic.

Huru International has long been at the forefront of this battle, and we have personally witnessed the crucial role that educators and schools play in helping girls manage their periods and stay in school.

The Deep-Rooted Impacts of Period Poverty

Period poverty goes beyond physical discomfort. It causes health issues, results in absenteeism from school, and shrouds girls in shame, humiliation, and isolation.

Infections 

Without access to period products, girls often have no choice but to resort to alternatives such as cloths, rags, or even newspapers. These makeshift solutions can introduce harmful bacteria, leading to severe, protracted infections.

 Some girls may resort to risky behavior out of desperation in order to obtain menstrual products. This puts them at risk of getting STDs, especially in regions where these diseases are prevalent.

School Absenteeism and Its Implications

Girls in this situation often skip school during their menstrual cycle, averaging up to four days a month. This accumulates to an alarming 40 days in an academic year, robbing them of vital classroom education.

With every day missed, girls lag behind in their studies, leading to declining grades, reduced participation, and, in some cases, dropping out entirely. It's not just about the days they miss; it's about the futures they're potentially sacrificing.

The Emotional and Social Costs

With misinformation rife and entrenched taboos surrounding menstruation, girls often bear the weight of undue shame. Incidents like staining can lead to teasing, name-calling, and emotional trauma.

In many societies, menstruating girls and women are considered "impure" or "unclean". They may be barred from participating in regular activities, visiting sacred places, or even interacting with their families. These beliefs further isolate and stigmatize them, reinforcing negative self-perceptions.

Without proper education on reproductive health, myths perpetuate, such as girls being 'cursed' during their periods, and lead to further ostracization.

Teachers and Schools: The Vital Pillars of Support

Teachers are more than just educators; they are often safe havens for young girls in need of support and guidance that is often missing at home. A common example we see is of a dedicated, trusted teacher who keeps pads in her class drawer, reassuring her students that she's there for them. She goes the extra mile by washing stained clothes and providing clean underwear and uniforms, ensuring that girls can remain in school without fear of embarrassment.

Those trusted teachers will also visit the homes of girls who frequently miss school, offering support to bring them back to class. It's a testament to their commitment, which goes beyond academic performance.

Madam Irene, St. John’s Community Centre, Pumwani

In order to meet the needs of our girls while they are in school, I believe that menstrual health and hygiene should be a top priority. Every girl who menstruates needs access to safe and sustainable period products. I believe the Huru pads will reverse the absenteeism trend we see with so many of our girls. We are extremely grateful for this.

As most of these low-income families are forced to put food before menstrual hygiene, the role that schools play in this area is even more crucial. Schools can make sure that the needs of their students are being met by working with organizations like Huru. Huru empowers young girls, ensuring they don't miss out on education due to their cycles, through the distribution of Huru Kits filled with period supplies and the hosting of workshops on reproductive health and wellbeing. Every girl who attends one of our sessions leaves with the information and tools she requires to safely manage her period for two years.

Our cooperation with these institutions underscores Huru International's ongoing mission: by working together, we can make sure that no girl is limited by her period.

Help A Girl Step Confidently Into Her Classroom

The back-to-school season is pivotal for setting the tone of the entire academic year. Our back-to-school campaign seeks to ensure that every girl can confidently step into her classroom, fully equipped to tackle both her studies and her menstrual cycle.

Donate today to make a difference in keeping girls in school this year.