Menstrual hygiene day: Let's talk about periods and mental health

Let’s talk about periods and mental health (Photo: iStock)

When period comes to mind, everyone’s mind will automatically associate it with pads, hygiene, or even absence from school. But there is something that we always tend to forget: the psychological and emotional impact of having a period, especially for young girls.

In most communities throughout Kenya—and indeed across the globe—girls are shamed, silenced, and stressed simply because they are on their period. And it does more than harm their education and physical health. It harms their self-esteem, confidence, and mental health.