Dora Kulariba, Adolescent Health Focal Person at the Upper East Regional Health Directorate, is calling for an urgent shift in public attitudes toward menstruation, especially the widespread stigma and discrimination faced by women and girls during their menstrual periods.
Speaking on A1 Radio during a panel discussion following the airing of a documentary titled “Period Poverty” by journalist Moses Appiah, Madam Kulariba emphasized the need to challenge outdated beliefs that marginalize menstruating women and prevent them from fully participating in daily life, including religious and cultural activities.
“Much of the stigma around menstruation stems from deep-rooted cultural beliefs that associate bodily fluids—especially those from the reproductive system—with impurity,” she said.
Kulariba explained that this misconception, coupled with hygiene-related challenges, often leads to exclusion and mistreatment of menstruating women—even within their own homes. In some cases, she noted, women are denied basic respect and intimacy from their spouses during their periods.
“I would like to say that some of the reasons why husbands would not even want to eat or drink from a woman during menstruation may also stem from how the woman manages her hygiene,” she stated.
However, she was quick to add that the greater issue lies in the societal mindset. “It’s about our mentality. People’s attitudes toward menstrual hygiene influence how menstruating women are treated, but that doesn’t make the natural process itself dirty or shameful.”
Kulariba stressed that menstruation is a normal biological function and should never be a basis for exclusion or judgment. Rather than promoting discrimination, she called for improved menstrual hygiene education, access to sanitary products, and public awareness campaigns to combat period stigma.
She also criticized the cultural and religious practices that bar menstruating women from activities such as praying or attending spiritual gatherings. “We shouldn’t prevent our women from praying. Has God come down to tell anyone that He will not accept the prayer of a bleeding woman?” she asked rhetorically.
“Women who are strong enough should not be barred from participating in their responsibilities or their spiritual life simply because they are menstruating,” she added.
The health expert’s remarks underscore the urgent need for more inclusive menstrual health policies, community education on menstrual hygiene management, and gender equality in healthcare. Her call aligns with ongoing efforts by health advocates and NGOs across Ghana to address period poverty and promote menstrual dignity for women and girls in underserved regions.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
