Boys’ role in breaking the stigma around menstruation and promoting gender equality

Boys play a crucial role in breaking the stigma around

menstruation and promoting gender equality! we are empowering them in communities on how to provide valuable support, educate others, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote open communication about menstruation.

The boy tackling period discrimination

• 18 years old Salvation is tackling menstruation discrimination at his school, by sharing the facts about periods with others (especially boys) and embracing positive practices that promote gender equality.
• At Salvation’s school, period discrimination is common and girls are often bullied during their periods.
• He is working to change this and is leading by example to educate his peers (especially other boys) on the realities of menstruation;
• championing new positive practices that promote gender equality
• in the school and even understanding the role parents play in bringing about positive change. 

A boy’s role in removing period stigma

“If a girl is having her period, boys should not laugh at her, make fun of her, or insult her. This will certainly make girls feel less embarrassed when they have their period because this is normal.” This is the message that Jeanes shares with his fellow students, understanding that girls shouldn’t face discrimination during their period.

At Salvation school in Mile 16 Lower Bolimba in the Tiko Fako Sub- Division of SW, Cameroon, girls often experience bullying when they have their period – especially during leaking incidents. This leads to feelings of shame and embarrassment and can result in girls staying at home when they are menstruating.

Salvation understands that to bring about social change and end period discrimination, it’s important that boys understand more about menstrual health. He has embraced opportunities to learn more and share his learnings through his role as a peer educator.

“As a peer educator, I have taken part in various activities, including the menstrual hygiene management trainings which helps boys understand that girls and boys are equal.”

by Elidshbcihwbviur