My period, my pride

Growing up in Africa and Cameroon is quite challenging especially with traditions and stereotypes. Sexual health to some is a taboo.

Menstruation is hardly talked about and the parents who try only tell you not to let a man "touch" you. I grew up with boys and when my period began, my aunt told me "you are now a woman. If a boy or man touches you, you will get pregnant." I was scared and confused.

I could not understand how an ordinary touch would get me pregnant. My brothers became my enemies during my period and same were my male classmates. I began talking with friends and classmates who all had similar experiences.

One day, the worst happened. I did not have pads to use, I decided to use toilet paper. Thank God I was at home and not in school. My brothers were discussing and I decided to join them. We stood outside, talking. With a loose pant on, I wanted to move a step, the bloodstained toilet paper fell. I was shocked and so ashamed. I ran into the house just for my brothers to shout and call me to come pick up my "abomination". I shamefully picked it up.

That day was spoilt for me. My worries added. Why was my period an abomination? I couldn't understand anything. I struggled on my own till I finally got married.

My wish was to have a girl child so I could talk Sexual and reproductive health with. Thank God my prayer was answered. I hAve 2 girls now.

By the time my 1st daughter was 9, I have her a packet of pad. I explained to her the importance and the pride there was in menstruation. She was excited and told everyone that she had pads. Some people were embarrassed but her friends were curious. They wanted to know what they were used for. My daughter was able to use pads 4 years after I had given her her 1st pack.

I was motivated to start the gender club and menstruation was my priority. I taught my girls the importance of menstruation and menstrual hygiene. I still teach them till date.

My daughter's period began when she was in class. She discovered that she was stained and she was bold enough to call the attention of her teacher who helped her and she left the class without her friends taking note. Some girls don't come to school during their periods because when they stain themselves, they are mocked at by their classmates. Other don't come to school because they don't have money to buy pads to use during their period. It is very sad how menstruation that is the pride of women is being mystified by some people.

To solve the mystery surrounding menstruation, I create gender clubs in schools and I also distribute washable sanitary pads to girls and women in rural communities. I teach women menstruation and menstrual hygiene so that they can also tell their daughters about it. I visit communities to train women oh how to sew their own washable pads.

HOVO center is there to assist women and girls on menstruation issues as well as other Sexual and reproductive health and rights. If you don't menstruate, you are not a woman. If you don't menstruate, you can't bear children. Menstruation is my pride because it qualifies me.