A menstrual health expert has urged Ghana to introduce a comprehensive policy on menstrual health and hygiene to deal with menstrual health challenges faced by females in the country. Sandra Boakye, Executive Director of Inspire Her, a female empowerment organization in Ghana, made this call on Thursday, adding that menstrual health is a critical factor in females and needs special attention. Ms.
Boakye made this call during a training of trainers’ workshop organized by World Vision Ghana, an international charity organization, in conjunction with the Ghana WASH Journalists Network (GWJN) and the Media Coalition Against Open Defaecation (M-CODe). The menstrual hygiene expert added that many girls from low-income communities face challenges with the management of menstruation, but a comprehensive policy will ensure that there is both knowledge on management and support where the girls are in need. In her presentation, Ms.
Boakye noted that there were systemic factors that linked menstruation with health and well-being. “Accurate and timely knowledge, available, safe, and affordable materials, informed and comfortable professionals, referral and access to health services, sanitation, and washing facilities are some of these systemic factors,” she stated. She added, “Positive social norms, safe and hygienic disposal, advocacy and policy, and having access to facilities to dispose of used menstrual management materials are also critical factors in overall menstrual health.