A girl goes through so many stages in her life, doesn't she? Yet, the most terrifying chapter unfolds as she steps into the shadowy realm of adolescence, around the ages of 11 or 12, when the terrifying arrival of her first period occurs. Are you aware that many girls in India don't even know what this is or have any information related to it? So, when their periods start, they get scared and worried about what's happening and who to ask about it. This is what isolates them from society, keeps them away from their studies, and even makes them afraid to go out and play.
The Educational Cost of Menstrual Ignorance
Nearly 23 million girls drop out of school annually due to fear of period stains and the anxiety of being mocked by their classmates. Can we truly accept this chilling truth? Is this grim reality something we can justify?
What if we could rewrite the whole narrative just before the cycle began? What if instead of silence, she received understanding and was given knowledge regarding this natural process? Educating young girls about menstruation and the accompanying changes is vital for their empowerment, significantly enhancing their health and well-being.
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Breaking Barriers Through Open Conversation
Open conversations as early as possible about periods go a long way in eliminating the stereotypes and false norms associated with them. People have always exaggeratedly perceived menstrual cycles as something to conceal or shy away from.
This secrecy has always led to misinformation and anxiety. This is, in fact, disturbingly true, as research indicates that every one in five girls is likely to drop out when they begin menstruating. Furthermore, the World Bank points out that girls who menstruate and miss four school days each month could forfeit 10-20% of their education.
Building Confidence Through Knowledge
Hence, it is essential to learn about the menstrual processes, and such education enables both boys and girls to appreciate it as an ordinary and wholesome part of living. The better girls understand their bodies, the more they appreciate the changes during adolescence, and the knowledge of self-care enhances their self-esteem and confidence.
Empowering girls goes beyond just giving them the knowledge related to the biological part of menstruation. By ensuring they have access to menstrual hygiene products, they can be helped to safeguard their health and prevent infections. This crucial information not only improves their comfort and affirms their inherent dignity but also significantly influences their educational experiences.
It’s disheartening how many women globally find themselves in this situation. Teaching young girls about menstruation is beyond just biology; this information empowers young girls to accept and adapt to their bodies while enabling them to face the world confidently. This is essential in achieving equal rights, improving health for girls, and creating a better future for females globally.
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This article is written by Mahipal Singh, Founder and CEO, Revaa.
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