On May 28, the world came together to celebrate World Menstrual Hygiene Day, highlighting the continued need for better menstrual hygiene education, access to essential hygiene materials, and greater societal acceptance. Menstrual hygiene is more than just a health issue—it’s about equality, education, and empowerment. When faced with inadequate access to menstrual hygiene materials and social stigmas, millions of girls around the world are barred from reaching their full potential.
In honor of this day, The WASH Foundation conducted interactive educational sessions at three schools in the Dominican Republic: Vertilio Alfau High School, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez High School, and Los Manantiales School, to ensure everyone has access to safe and dignified menstrual hygiene care and education.
Menstrual Hygiene Training Session
These sessions were led by Eduardo Liendo, Project Manager at The WASH Foundation, and Susan Rosendo, WASH Coordinator. Through engaging audiovisual presentations, practical demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and group workshops, we reached 366 students, including 226 girls and 140 boys. Our goal was to equip students with comprehensive knowledge about menstrual hygiene management, covering:
- The basics of menstruation
- The importance of maintaining good menstrual hygiene
- Debunking myths and presenting realities
- Effective menstrual product management
- Practical techniques for proper menstrual hygiene
- Demonstrations on using menstrual products
- Strategies to confront and overcome the stigma associated with menstruation
These menstrual hygiene education sessions are part of The WASH Foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote health and well-being through the WASH-in-Schools program. When we invest in teaching young girls and boys about menstrual hygiene and WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), we are taking leaps and bounds toward a future where everyone has access to menstrual care and hygiene supplies and can achieve limitless possibilities.
Continuing the Mission of Menstrual Hygiene Education
The WASH Foundation is dedicated to continuing these vital educational programs and expanding our reach to more schools and communities. Our mission is to eradicate the stigma and barriers associated with menstruation, enabling women and girls to enjoy better health, education, and livelihoods. When women and girls are supported in managing their menstrual health, they can fully participate in all aspects of life, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.
If you would like to help support The WASH Foundation’s Menstrual Health and Hygiene program, please donate today!
