Menstruation is a natural biological process, but for millions of girls and women globally, it continues to be a source of discomfort and health risks. In Nigeria, over 37 million women and girls lack access to safe and affordable menstrual products, leading to serious health, educational, and social challenges. Proper menstrual hygiene is essential for women’s overall well-being. Access to sanitary products and education enables women and girls to use clean and safe menstrual products, reducing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other reproductive health issues, thereby improving overall health
Staying in school during their period can be a challenge. In Nigeria, 1 in 4 girls has missed school because they couldn’t afford pads. Period poverty is not just about the cost of pads, it’s about lost opportunities. With access to menstrual products, girls can stay in school and reach their full potential. For girls with disabilities, the challenge is even greater. Limited resources and social exclusion make period poverty a double burden for them.
In Nigeria, menstrual products are a significant expense. Households spent approximately ₦184 billion on single-use menstrual pads in 2021 alone. However, many school-aged girls, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and those with disabilities, resort to using unhygienic alternatives due to the high cost of sanitary products.
One of the few organizations actively advocating for accessible menstrual health in Nigeria is the Deaf Women Aloud Initiative (DWAI). Deaf Women Aloud Initiative (DWAI) is a Nigerian non-profit organization that focuses on advocating for the rights, empowerment, and inclusion of deaf and hard-of-hearing women. Their work includes education, skills development, sexual and reproductive health advocacy, and fighting against gender-based violence. Our shared goals have informed our partnership to establish a Pad Bank in a school for persons with disabilities. Through our effective collaborative efforts, we aim to provide free menstrual hygiene products and essential education, ensuring that every girl has the resources and knowledge to manage her period safely and with dignity.
At ChananHill, we are committed to making menstrual health accessible, inclusive, and stigma-free for everyone. Here’s how you can be part of the change. Help us provide free, accessible menstrual products to individuals with disabilities. Every contribution counts! https://chananhill.org/donates/