Stakeholders in the Upper East Region are intensifying efforts to address menstrual hygiene challenges, particularly in rural and underserved communities, as part of the Menstrual Health in a Changing Climate Campaign led by the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO).
The campaign seeks to highlight the intersection between climate change and menstrual health, drawing attention to how environmental factors further compound the struggles girls and women face in managing their periods safely and with dignity.
In a live radio discussion on A1 Radio, Dora Kulariba, Adolescent Health Focal Person at the Upper East Regional Health Directorate, emphasized the serious health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene practices.
Immediate concerns include severe menstrual cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, rashes, and itching caused by the infrequent changing of sanitary materials. If left untreated, these symptoms can escalate into more severe complications such as infections that may lead to pelvic inflammatory diseases and, in the long term, infertility.
“Because of the poor nature of handling yourself, there could be accumulation and long keeping of infections,” she said.
“You can also get an infection of the blood, which is very dangerous. Once the blood is infected, it goes straight into your heart, and you could have serious issues.”
She added that blood infections pose a particularly serious threat, as they can affect the heart and lead to potentially life-threatening conditions. These health risks are often exacerbated by limited access to clean water, sanitary products, and proper menstrual education—conditions that are further strained by climate-related disruptions such as droughts and water shortages.
To address these challenges, Mrs. Kulariba noted that the health directorate collaborates with institutions such as the Ghana Education Service, media outlets, and various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to strengthen menstrual health education and services.
The goal is to promote menstrual equity and build climate resilience by fostering open dialogue, raising awareness, and ensuring that young people—especially girls—are equipped with the knowledge and support they need.
She encouraged young people experiencing menstrual health issues to seek help at the nearest health facility, assuring them of confidential, professional, and compassionate care.
“The health sector is there to give all the support that is needed. So, to the young ones: if you experience any changes and you do not understand, just visit the nearest health facility, and they will help you out,” she advised.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
