In honor of Menstrual Hygiene Day, celebrated annually on May 28th, we hosted a webinar on May 21st, 2024, titled “From Stigma to Solutions: Transforming Perspectives on Menstrual Health.” The 2024 theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” emphasizes the crucial need for collaboration to create an environment where menstruation is fully supported and destigmatized.
We were delighted to welcome representatives from various organisations from across the Caribbean and beyond. Their invaluable insights and experiences enriched our discussions, providing a comprehensive view of the global, regional, and local efforts to address the stigma and challenges surrounding menstruation.
Our webinar featured a distinguished panel of speakers:
Kimberly Sanker-Panchal: An MPH candidate in Global Health at the University of Illinois Chicago and an intern with us at Lake Health and Wellbeing. Kimberly provided an insightful introduction about period stigma and misinformation, discussing their significant consequences.
Ina Jurga: The International Coordinator of World Menstrual Hygiene Day from WASH United. Ina offered a global perspective on how Menstrual Hygiene Day has been instrumental in tackling stigma and misinformation worldwide.
Lyston Skerritt: Adolescent Development Specialist at the UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area. Lyston shared a regional perspective, exploring UNICEF’s work and key strategies needed to combat menstrual stigma.
Abi Begho: Programme Director at Lake Health and Wellbeing. Abi discussed the menstrual health challenges, stigma, and misinformation identified locally by our NGO and how we aim to address these issues through our menstrual health education project.
Saros Hendrickson: Interim Director, Department of Gender Affairs, Nevis. Saros highlighted her observations when engaging with young people on menstrual health issues, their concerns, and the stigma and misinformation they face. She also provided an overview of the types of policies needed to ensure good menstrual health and hygiene.
The session was incredibly productive, offering practical advice and strategies to tackle menstrual stigma and misinformation. We are committed to continuing this important work and creating a supportive environment for all individuals who menstruate.
For those who missed the webinar or wish to explore more about menstrual health, here are some valuable resources:
– The recording of the webinar
– Menstrual Hygiene Day website
– UNICEF Menstrual Health and Hygiene Guide
– US Menstrual Health and Hygiene Organizations: https://www.period.org and Alliance for Period Supplies
Thank you to everyone who participated in the webinar, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to create a period-friendly world.
