Efforts to end menstrual stigma and improve menstrual health education in Ghana received a major boost as stakeholders, led by the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Madam Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, rallied support to normalise menstruation and empower young girls.
At a forum organised by the Touching the Lives of Girls Foundation, Madam Lartey stressed that menstruation is a natural biological process and must not be a source of shame or discrimination. She expressed concern over the way menstruation continues to negatively affect girls’ education, health, and self-esteem across communities in Ghana.
“Girls should not suffer in silence. They should not miss school or risk infections because they lack access to safe menstrual products and accurate information,” she said.
Held under the theme “Menstrual Hygiene and Sexual Abuse Talk: Breaking the Silence,” the event brought together key voices including traditional leaders, Members of Parliament, medical experts, and youth advocates to challenge deep-rooted taboos and promote open dialogue around menstrual and reproductive health.
The Gender Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making menstrual hygiene products accessible and affordable, as well as integrating comprehensive menstrual education into public health efforts. “By 2030, making menstruation a normal part of life must be our collective goal,” she added.
Naa Opronye Afi II, Queen Mother of Teiko Tsuru We, underscored the role of culture in educating girls, calling for a national strategy to improve girl-child education. She highlighted the value of traditional rites like Dipo as a way to impart knowledge about hygiene and personal development.
Meanwhile, MP for Jomoro, Madam Dorcas Toffey, addressed mental health challenges faced by young girls. “Emotional well-being is key. Let’s teach our girls that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she encouraged.
Dr. John Bosomtwe, a gynaecologist at St. Dominic Hospital, called for inclusive menstrual education that involves boys and teachers to build a supportive environment in schools. “Education must be holistic and inclusive if we want to eliminate stigma,” he said.
Nana Ama Adutwumwaa, founder of the Touching the Lives of Girls Foundation, shared how her personal struggle with menstrual hygiene inspired her to start the organisation in 2016. Her story of undergoing surgery due to poor menstrual practices emphasized the urgency of educating girls early and thoroughly.
The forum marked a crucial step toward reshaping public attitudes about menstruation, bridging health gaps, and empowering young girls with knowledge and confidence.
