According to UNICEF, 37 million Nigerian women and girls experience period poverty. Such a problem has been exacerbated with the increasing costs of sanitary products.
Many girls either fail to attend school, get infected, or revert to unsafe alternatives such as rags and newspapers. In certain communities, the period stigma has caused even a reluctance to discuss the issue. Yet, there are solutions. Better access to menstrual products and education reduces period poverty.
1. Make Sanitary Products More Affordable
The high price of sanitary pads is a major cause of period poverty. Many women and girls cannot afford them, forcing them to use unsafe materials.
To solve this:
- The government should remove Value Added Tax (VAT) on sanitary pads.
- Companies should produce low-cost reusable pads.
- Nonprofits should distribute free pads to girls in need.
Countries like Kenya have already removed taxes on menstrual products. Nigeria can take similar steps to make pads affordable for all.
2. Provide Free Sanitary Pads in Schools
Many girls miss school during their periods because they do not have access to pads. Schools should provide free menstrual products, just like they provide toilet paper.
Some organizations already distribute pads in schools. Expanding these programs can help keep girls in school and improve their confidence.
3. Teach Menstrual Health Education
Many girls grow up without proper information about their periods. Some believe periods are dirty or shameful. In conservative areas, girls are taught to hide their menstruation.
To change this:
- Schools should include menstrual health in the curriculum.
- Parents should talk openly about periods with their children.
- Religious and community leaders should help break the stigma.
Educating boys is also important. When boys understand menstruation, they will be less likely to tease or shame girls.
4. Support Reusable Pads and Menstrual Cups
Disposable pads are expensive and create waste. Reusable pads and menstrual cups are cheaper in the long run and better for the environment.
Women-led organizations in Nigeria already produce affordable reusable pads. Teaching girls how to make and use them can provide a long-term solution.
5. Improve Water and Sanitation Facilities
Many girls in rural areas do not have access to clean water or private toilets. This makes it hard to manage their periods safely.
To fix this:
- Schools and public spaces should have separate toilets for girls.
- Communities should have clean water stations.
- Disposal bins for used pads should be provided.
Without these facilities, period poverty will continue to affect education and health.
6. End Period Stigma and Myths
In some Nigerian communities, periods are seen as dirty. Girls are told not to cook, touch objects, or be around men when they are menstruating. These beliefs lead to shame and silence.
To break the stigma:
- Women’s groups should start conversations about periods.
- Social media campaigns should spread awareness.
- Schools and workplaces should encourage open discussions.
The more people talk about periods, the more normal they become.
7. Government Policies and Support
The Nigerian government can play a role in ending period poverty. Some solutions include:
- Passing laws to provide free menstrual products in schools.
- Funding menstrual health programs across the country.
- Working with NGOs so all girls have access to pads and hygiene education.
Countries like Scotland have made menstrual products free for all. Nigeria can also take bold steps to support women and girls.
Conclusion
Period poverty affects education, health, and gender equality. No girl should miss school or feel ashamed because she cannot afford pads. To learn more about policies and research on menstrual health, visit genderpedia.ng/shop for valuable resources.
