LET'S TALK ABOUT PERIODS.
Let’s talk about Periods.
Period Shame
Period Poverty
Period Stigma
For something that is a natural body occurrence such as peeing or going to the loo, periods are fraught with so much stigma and misinformation that women and girls actually feel embarrassed and uncomfortable to talk about their periods. The shame attached to periods makes it difficult for people who menstruate to even discuss or ask questions about it. Periods are seen as something that is “dirty” and should be kept to yourself when you experience it. Even though periods can affect women and girls’ physical and mental well-being, there is very little help available to have conversations and education about it.
It is particularly challenging for those who do not only have limited information and education about periods but are also unable to afford decent materials to use during their periods. Periods can be messy, painful, and uncomfortable, and the added stress of not having access to hygienic products and painkillers can make this already distressful experience quite traumatizing.
In order to break down the stigma, it’s important that everyone understands and talks about periods, regardless of whether it’s something that happens to them or not.
Talking about something helps to normalise it. It also dispels any myths and misinformation about it. Conversations around periods need to be normalised so that people can be open and honest about what happens when they have their period and how it affects them. People should feel free to ask questions, discuss, and compare symptoms. The more we talk about it, the easier it will be.
These conversations will also help people who don’t experience periods to understand what it’s like for those who do.
While there may always be some level of discomfort with having periods, women and girls who menstruate deserve to at least have a Good Period, devoid of stigma, shame and poverty.
That is why the Gurl Kode is undertaking the Good Period project to provide teenage girls with regular supply of sanitary products, offer the opportunity for girls to have open conversations about periods, menstrual cycle, and women’s reproductive system, with each other and older women.
You can support this project by making a one-off or ongoing donation. Donations can be sent via mobile money transfer:
Mobile Money number: (+233) 020 201 5645
Recipient (Monica Donkor - Good Periods Coordinator)
For more information on how to help please email us at gurlkode@gmail.com
Help end Period Shame
Period Stigma
Period Poverty
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