‘Why menstrual hygiene can save lives’

Despite being a normal part of life for nearly half the global population, menstruation is still surrounded by misconceptions and silence. For countless women and girls, managing their periods is not just about comfort—it’s a serious health concern. Without proper hygiene, they face heightened risks of infections, reproductive complications, and even infertility.

Experts say these challenges are largely preventable. Access to clean water, affordable sanitary products, and the right education can make a significant difference, reducing health risks and improving overall well-being.

This point was highlighted during a recent workshop hosted by Population Services International (PSI) Nigeria in Lagos. Dr. Abdul-Hameed Adediran, Senior Programme Manager and Lead for Menstrual Health Initiatives at PSI Nigeria, warned that poor menstrual hygiene practices are often underestimated. “Infections caused by unhygienic methods can escalate into severe reproductive issues, including infertility and complications during childbirth,” he said.

The hidden dangers of poor menstrual hygiene

Across Nigeria and many parts of Africa, thousands of women and girls still rely on unhygienic materials such as rags, tissue paper, or even leaves during their menstrual cycles. Some women reuse pads or tampons beyond the recommended time because they cannot afford or access alternatives. Others lack private spaces to change or wash up, leaving them vulnerable to infections.

According to Dr. Adediran, “The vaginal area is highly sensitive and prone to bacterial growth, especially when exposed to moisture and warmth. When menstrual blood stays in contact with the body for too long or when unclean materials are used, it creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis, and in severe cases, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is a major cause of infertility.”

Studies have shown that up to 70% of women who develop PID report a history of poor menstrual hygiene. In rural settings, the challenge is compounded by the lack of clean water, safe toilets, and access to sanitary products.

The role of clean water and regular changes

Water isn’t just for drinking—it’s critical for hygiene. During menstruation, the body’s natural defences can be weakened, making it easier for pathogens to enter the reproductive tract. Without access to clean water to wash hands, clean reusable pads, or maintain general hygiene, the risk of infection skyrockets.

Dr. Adediran emphasised, “Clean water is not optional. It’s essential. When girls and women cannot wash properly before and after changing their menstrual products, they expose themselves to bacteria that could cause infections. Something as simple as washing hands with soap before touching a pad can make a life-saving difference.”

Equally important is the need to change menstrual products at recommended intervals—every 4 to 6 hours for pads or tampons, and after 8 to 12 hours for menstrual cups. “Leaving a pad or tampon on for too long is like inviting bacteria to multiply,” Adediran said. “It can lead to odour, rashes, and severe infections like toxic shock syndrome in rare cases.”

Body cleanliness also plays a role. Bathing regularly, wearing breathable underwear, and avoiding harsh soaps or vaginal douches can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and pH in the intimate area.

Beyond hygiene practices, stigma and misinformation are major barriers. In some communities, menstruation is still shrouded in secrecy and shame, forcing girls to hide their periods or skip school. This silence prevents them from learning proper hygiene methods and understanding the importance of safe practices.

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Dr. Adediran stressed that breaking the silence is key: “When we normalise conversations about menstruation, we empower girls and women to take control of their health. At PSI Nigeria, we are investing in educational campaigns to ensure that menstrual health is not treated as a hidden issue but as a public health priority.”

Population Services International (PSI), a global health organisation, has been championing menstrual health education in Nigeria and across Africa. Their campaigns emphasise not just the availability of products but the knowledge to use them safely. They work with schools, health centres, and community groups to distribute information, train teachers, and engage parents and young boys in the conversation.

Menstrual health is more than just a medical issue; it’s a matter of dignity and equality. When girls lack safe menstrual products or clean facilities, they often miss school, leading to gaps in education. Women may miss work, affecting income and productivity. The cycle of poverty and gender inequality deepens.

PSI’s messaging makes it clear: improving menstrual hygiene is not just about preventing infections—it’s about creating opportunities. “When women and girls are healthy, they are better able to pursue education, work, and contribute to their communities,” said Adediran. “Menstrual hygiene can literally save lives and futures.”

The workshop in Lagos ended with a call to government, civil society, and private sector actors to prioritise menstrual health in policy and funding. Investing in clean water infrastructure, affordable sanitary products, and awareness campaigns can transform public health outcomes.

Dr. Adediran concluded, “It’s time to stop treating menstruation as an afterthought. We cannot afford to lose lives and futures to something so preventable. Every girl and woman deserves the right to manage her period with dignity and safety.”

Turning periods into power

Menstruation should never be a health hazard. It’s a normal biological process, but without proper hygiene and support, it can become a silent threat. The message from experts is clear: access to clean water, regular product changes, and education are not luxuries—they are life-saving essentials.

By breaking stigmas and providing the tools and knowledge needed, Nigeria can turn periods from a source of shame and danger into a foundation for health and empowerment. The conversation has started; now, action must follow. After all, when we invest in menstrual hygiene, we don’t just save lives—we unlock the potential of half our population.