Understanding Menstrual Stigma

Menstrual stigma refers to the societal norms and attitudes that discourage open discussion about menstruation, leading to feelings of shame and exclusion for girls and women. This stigma can manifest in various ways, such as bullying in schools or feeling unable to communicate about menstrual issues even within families. In many communities, particularly in poorer regions like rural Madagascar, the taboo surrounding menstruation prevents girls from understanding their own bodies and leads to significant mental strain. The stigma not only hinders their academic performance but also diminishes their overall well-being, making it crucial to address this issue.