Adolescents girls and youth from six villages under Bhoirymbong block, Ri Bhoi district today attended an event hosted by the Faith Foundation to observe the International Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day.
Participants, which also included teachers, mothers and men, were drawn from the villages of Syllei U Lar, Umsawriang, Umktieh Pdeng, Umktieh Nongshilliang, Umkiet Mawkhim abd Umktieh Lawsiatsngiang at the programme held in Umroi Presbyterian Higher Secondary School.
The Faith Foundation presented an exploratory study, “Indigenous food and its linkage to nutrition and menstrual health” and shared information about indigenous wild edibles, fish and meat that are rich resources readily available. They stressed on the importance of food as medicine and nutrition to support menstruating girls and women.
The highlight of the event was a skit on the issue of de-stigmatising menstruation and encouraging open discussions.
A menstrual museum was installed which showcased the different kinds of menstrual products and their uses, posters on menstruation and its cycle, indigenous wild medicinal plants and art work by the adolescents.
A myths and facts corner to demystify the superstitious beliefs on menstruation in our communities was also displayed.
State Health System Resource Centre (SHSRC) Senior Consultant Dr. Marbabiang Syiemlieh who attended the event as chief guest applauded the foundation and was optimistic that the stigma and taboo around menstruation will soon be removed from the society.
She also said the society needs to discuss with children, both boys and girls, about puberty in order to prepare them for the changes in their bodies.
