[Re: https://www.hifa.org/dgroups-rss/cervical-cancer-58-educating-girls-abou... ]
Thank you Neil,
One of the major challenges facing girls and women in my community is the difficulty of openly discussing reproductive health.
In my communities, cultural and social expectations mean that women and girls may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed when discussing issues related to their reproductive organs and health.
Topics that should be considered normal health matters are sometimes treated as shameful or inappropriate for discussion.
Menstruation is one example, although it is a natural process, some girls and women still feel uncomfortable talking about their periods, describing menstrual pain or seeking medical advice when they experience difficulties, some may suffer in silence because they fear embarrassment, judgement or negative reactions from others.
This situation can affect their confidence in discussing other reproductive health concerns, including unusual symptoms, menstrual irregularities, and other changes in their bodies.
Some girls may not feel confident enough to ask questions, seek reliable information or approach healthcare workers when they experience symptoms that require attent.
I believe this silence is an important barrier to reproductive health education and access to healthcare.
I believe this approaches is helpful
1. starting education early to receive appropriate information about puberty, menstruation, personal hygiene, and changes in their bodies before and during adolescence.
2. mothers and other trusted female members can play an important role in creating safe spaces where girls feel comfortable asking questions without fear and embarrassment.
3. In my opinion, schools can provide culturally appropriate reproductive health education, helping girls understand their bodies and recognise when they need medical advice.
4. Also midwives and other healthcare workers can support girls and women through community education, respectful communication, and confidential non judgmental healthcare services.
They can also help to correct misinformation and encourage early healthcare seeking behavior.
I believe that reproductive health education is not simply about providing medical information. It is also about building confidence, trust and the ability of girls to speak about their health without fear.
Every girl should grow up understanding her body, recognising changes in her health and feeling confident enough to ask questions and seek help when necessary.
HIFA profile: Amal Abdikarim Yusuf is a Health worker based in Somalia. Professional interests: Maternal and newborn health, women's health, cervical and breast cancer awareness, cancer prevention and early detection, reproductive health, community health education, HPV vaccination, and improving access to healthcare services for underserved communities. Email address: Amalyusuf2000 AT gmail.com