The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for the integration of menstrual education into school curricula to deepen understanding and dispel myths surrounding menstruation.
The UNICEF Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Specialist, Mr Monday Johnson, made this call during a sensitisation programme on menstrual hygiene on Friday in Ibadan.
According to Johnson, menstrual education is crucial for promoting menstrual health, hygiene, and awareness in Nigeria.
“Menstrual education in school curriculum will help young school girls to quickly understand the menstrual cycle and its phases.
” It will also educate girls on proper use of sanitary products, disposal, hand hygiene; how to manage menstrual cramps and other symptoms,” he said.
Johnson emphasised that menstrual education promotes open discussion, making educated individuals feel more confident and empowered.
Also, UNICEF’s Social Behavioural Specialist, Mrs Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, noted that menstruation myths and misconceptions contribute to menstrual stigma and shame.
“Misinformation about menstruation can lead to poor menstrual health and hygiene practices while menstrual stigma can affect women’s education, employment, and overall well-being,” she said.
The event featured lectures, panel sessions, and practical demonstrations on menstrual hygiene practices, including proper use and disposal of sanitary products.
The programme aimed to promote a more informed and supportive environment for individuals to manage their menstrual health [2].
The celebration was held in commemoration of the 2025 World Menstrual Hygiene Day, with the theme “Together for a Period Friendly World.”
The event brought together girls from selected schools, including St Anne’s Girls College, St. Theresa School, and Urban Day Grammar School, among others.
