Why Menstrual Education Should Include Boys: Breaking the Stigma Starts with Everyone .

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By Francis Komba 

Imagine a girl starting her period unexpectedly at school. Instead of receiving support, she hears whispers, laughter, or teasing from some boys. For many girls, this is a reality.

A girl worried of critics from her male friends because she’s in her period 

                                           Source Online 

Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet it is often surrounded by shame, silence, and misunderstanding. One of the biggest reasons this stigma continues is that boys are often left out of conversations about menstrual education. If we truly want to break the stigma, boys must be included in menstrual education. 

In an interaction with the students of Henrietta Preparatory School, we found out that a lot of guys have no knowledge about menstruation. “I actually don’t know what causes menstruation, so it feels awkward for me when a girl says she’s menstruating.” Sardat Abdul, a student. 

Sardat Abdul, a student from Henrietta Prep. School sharing his opinion on menstruation 

In many societies, menstruation is treated as a “girls-only” topic. While girls are taught about periods, many boys grow up with little or no accurate information. As a result, they may believe myths, make insensitive jokes, or embarrass girls who are menstruating.

This lack of understanding can make girls feel ashamed of something that is completely normal and beyond their control. Educating boys about menstruation can help change these attitudes. When boys understand that menstruation is a healthy and natural part of life, they are less likely to bully or mock girls.

 This knowledge also prepares them to become caring brothers, classmates, friends, partners, and fathers in the future. A society where both boys and girls understand menstrual education is more respectful, inclusive, and supportive.

Speaking to sir John, a teacher at Henrietta Preparatory School, he explained the essence of including boys in menstrual education.

Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF emphasize the importance of comprehensive menstrual health education for young people. They recognize that providing accurate information helps reduce stigma, promotes gender equality, and supports the health and education of girls. Schools and communities therefore have an important role to play.

                                                            A logo of the WHO

                                                             Source online 

Schools should teach menstrual health to both boys and girls and organize awareness campaigns. Families should also encourage open discussions at home and challenge harmful myths with factual information. Together, these efforts can help normalize menstruation and reduce stigma.

Breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation is everyone’s responsibility. Menstruation is not just a girls’ issue, it is a human issue. The journey toward ending menstrual stigma begins with knowledge, empathy, and the courage to have honest conversations.