02/11/2024
MY EXPERIENCE WITH COMMUNITIES IN ABAJI AND KWALI AREA COUNCIL WHILE CARRYING OUT MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND PERIOD POVERTY RESEARCH PROJECT.
Engaging with communities during my research on menstrual health and period poverty has been enlightening and impactful. At some point, it was emotional seeing teenage girls and young adults who were supposed to be focused on their education; equipping themselves with the right knowledge pregnant, and some with children already put to birth…having a responsibility to cater for.
It reminds me how privileged some other teenagers are, who have all opportunities at their beck and call to be guided and exposed to the right form of knowledge and parenting.
Throughout this journey, I experienced opportunities that shaped my understanding of the issues surrounding menstrual health, period poverty, and personal hygiene. I understood what it is to build trust and rapport, cultural Norms, barriers to access, diverse experiences, etc.
Building Trust and Rapport: Establishing trust within the communities I worked with was essential. Initial interactions often involved introducing myself and explaining the purpose of the research. By being open and respectful, I was able to foster a sense of comfort, which encouraged participants to share their experiences candidly.
Understanding Cultural Norms: Menstrual health is deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs and practices. I learned that in some communities, menstruation is still considered taboo and discussing it openly can be challenging. Understanding these cultural norms allowed me to approach conversations sensitively and respectfully, ensuring that participants felt safe and understood.
Diverse Experiences: Every community I engaged with had unique perspectives on menstrual health and period poverty. Some women spoke of the stigma they faced, while others shared innovative coping strategies they had developed. These diverse experiences highlighted the need for tailored solutions that consider the specific cultural and socio-economic contexts of each community.
Barriers to Access: A significant finding from my research was the myriad barriers women and girls face in accessing menstrual hygiene products. Many reported financial constraints, lack of awareness about available resources, and inadequate facilities at schools and public places. Hearing these firsthand accounts underscored the urgency of addressing period poverty as a public health issue.
In conclusion, my experience with communities during this research highlighted the complexities surrounding menstrual health and period poverty. It reinforced the need for continued advocacy, education, and collaborative efforts to create sustainable solutions that empower women and girls. Engaging with communities not only enriched my research but also deepened my commitment to advancing menstrual health rights for all.