Menstrual health: breaking taboos to better support young girls
Menstrual health in young girls is a crucial issue for their physical, psychological, and social well–being. The first period, known as menarche, is a significant event in the life of a teenager. However, this natural aspect of growing up is often misunderstood, neglected, or surrounded by taboos in many cultures.
It is therefore essential to provide young girls with comprehensive education and practical advice to help them navigate this period of their lives with confidence. A young girl’s menstrual cycle begins with the onset of her first period and is characterized by regular hormonal changes. On average, a cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days.
This cycle is divided into several phases. The follicular phase, i.e., before ovulation, when the ovary begins to produce eggs. The body also produces estrogen, a hormone that prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy. Next is the ovulation phase, approximately halfway through the cycle, when the egg is released from the ovary and travels to the uterus.
The luteal phase after ovulation, when the uterus prepares to receive an embryo in case of fertilization. If the egg is not fertilized, hormone levels drop and the cycle begins again. And finally, menstruation or bleeding. At this stage, if pregnancy has not occurred, the uterine lining breaks down and is shed in the form of blood, marking the start of menstruation.
Common menstrual symptoms…
Young girls may experience a variety of symptoms during their menstrual cycle. Among the most common are abdominal pains, also known as dysmenorrhea. These are the most frequent pains during menstruation. They can range from mild to severe and affect the quality of life of teenage girls.
Specialists recommend the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, as well as relaxation techniques such as meditation or light exercise to relieve pain. Applying heat to the lower abdomen can also be effective. Mood swings are another common symptom. Many young girls experience mood swings or irritability before and during their periods.
Psychology specialists suggest that managing stress through regular physical activity or breathing exercises can help regulate these emotional symptoms. Fatigue and headaches are also common. These symptoms may be due to hormonal fluctuations. Specialists advise maintaining a balanced diet, staying well hydrated, and taking sufficient breaks to rest.
Good menstrual hygiene management…
Menstrual hygiene is essential to prevent infections and maintain comfort during this period. To this end, Arlette TOSSA, a specialist in menstrual hygiene, strongly recommends changing sanitary protection regularly. Whether you use pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, it is recommended that you change them every 4 to 6 hours to prevent the growth of bacteria and possible irritation.
She emphasizes the importance of choosing the right products and recommends opting for unscented and hypoallergenic products to avoid the risk of allergies or infections. According to her, it is important to wash the genital area properly with warm water and mild soap, without forgetting to dry the intimate area thoroughly to avoid moisture, which promotes the growth of bacteria.
She also suggests wearing cotton underwear, which allows the skin to breathe, unlike synthetic fabrics, which can cause irritation or infections.
Breaking taboos…
It is crucial that young girls receive proper education about menstruation from their first experience with their period, says Marie-Cécile ATIKPA, a midwife working in a hospital in the Atlantic department. This education must address several aspects, such as the biological process of menstruation, which involves explaining the mechanisms of the menstrual cycle and periods to help young girls understand what is happening to them and why; the importance of menstrual hygiene through adequate education that will help them choose the products that suit them best and maintain good hygiene; warning signs and medical consultation; and breaking down stigma and shame. Open and positive education can reduce the stigma associated with menstruation and promote a healthier dialogue around menstrual health.
Menstrual health issues…
Some young girls may experience problems related to their menstruation that require specialist advice. One common problem is severe dysmenorrhea. In this case, if menstrual pain becomes unbearable, it is advisable to consult a general practitioner or gynecologist, who can prescribe appropriate treatment.
Another problem is irregular periods. If menstrual cycles are very irregular or if there are prolonged delays, a medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out hormonal disorders or other underlying conditions, the specialist strongly advises.
As for excessive bleeding, if a young girl loses a significant amount of blood during her period, it is recommended that she consult a gynecologist to assess the possible causes and avoid complications.
Psychosocial impact of menstruation…
Menstruation can have a significant psychosocial impact on young girls, especially in environments where it is poorly understood. Marie–Cécile ATIKPA, a midwife, recommends encouraging family and school support. Young girls need to feel supported and not judged during their periods.
Support from parents, teachers, and friends can greatly reduce the psychological impact of menstruation, she said. She also emphasizes managing social pressure and stigma and suggests awareness programs to break these taboos, whether at school or in the community.
Menstrual health in young girls is an area that requires special attention, both from a biological and psychosocial perspective. Good education, proper menstrual hygiene management, and access to appropriate medical care are essential for young girls to experience their menstrual cycle with peace of mind.
By breaking taboos and offering practical advice, we can not only improve their quality of life but also enable them to have a more balanced future free from stigma.