FAME foundation was established to solicit, encourage and advance the social, emotional and economic wellbeing of women and girls as well as formulate programmes within the framework of national development plan with a view to enhancing the participation of women and advocate for gender parity in the society.
FAME foundation firmly believe that the entire nation, businesses, communities and groups can benefit from the implementation of programs and policies that adopt the notion of women empowerment.
FAME Foundation, in partnership with Laureus Sport for Good, organized a Menstrual Health and Personal Hygiene Outreach as part of the PLAY it DREAM it initiative. This event aimed to educate and empower internally displaced women and girls about the importance of menstrual health, the proper use of sanitary pads, and the health implications of inadequate hygiene.
The event which was held on October 12, 2024, engaged 85 participants, including 50 women and 35 girls from the Durumi IDP Camp in Area 1, Abuja. The event served as a platform to address the challenges faced by these women and girls, providing them with essential information and resources to enhance their well-being.
The first speaker, Ms. Yetunde Opeloyeru, focused on menstrual health and personal hygiene, guiding how participants can prioritize their well-being during their menstrual cycles. She emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, particularly the necessity of regular bathing during menstruation. Ms. Opeloyeru explained that this simple yet effective practice not only enhances comfort but also plays a role in overall hygiene, helping participants feel their best throughout the month.
In her session, Ms. Opeloyeru shared practical strategies for managing menstrual discomfort, such as using warm compresses and practicing gentle exercises to alleviate cramps. She also addressed common myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation, aiming to empower participants with accurate information. She encouraged the women and girls to voice their concerns and share their experiences, creating a supportive environment for discussion.
Ms. Opeloyeru guided the responsible disposal of used pads. She explained that understanding proper disposal methods is essential for personal health and environmental sustainability. Participants learned about different disposal options, such as wrapping used pads in biodegradable materials and placing them in designated waste bins. This knowledge not only helps maintain hygiene but also contributes to reducing waste in their community.
Additionally, Ms. Opeloyeru highlighted the importance of self-care during menstruation. She encouraged participants to stay active by engaging in light physical activities, such as walking or yoga, which can improve mood and reduce menstrual discomfort. She introduced relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, to help participants manage stress and anxiety.
Furthermore, Ms. Opeloyeru stressed the significance of nourishing the body with healthy foods, recommending a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and hydration. She explained how proper nutrition can alleviate some menstrual symptoms and support overall health. By encouraging participants to prioritize self-care, she aimed to empower them to take control of their health and well-being during their menstrual cycles.
The second speaker, Ms. Folake Oyebade, provided practical demonstrations on using various menstrual products, including reusable and disposable options. Participants had the opportunity to see each type in action, helping them understand the benefits and features of each product. Ms. Oyebade explained how to properly use and care for reusable pads, noting their environmental benefits and long-term cost-effectiveness.
She emphasized the importance of choosing menstrual products that fit individual needs and preferences. Participants learned to consider factors such as absorbency, comfort, and lifestyle when selecting products, which aimed to help them make informed decisions for their menstrual health.
To enhance engagement, Ms. Oyebade facilitated a hands-on activity where attendees could handle the different products. This interactive approach allowed them to ask questions and share thoughts, creating a supportive environment for discussion.
Ms. Oyebade also highlighted the value of discussing menstrual health openly to reduce stigma and promote awareness within the community. She noted that open conversations about menstruation can help create understanding and support among women and girls.
Additionally, she encouraged participants to share what they learned with their peers and family members. Ms. Oyebade provided resources and tips on how to start conversations about menstrual health, promoting a collective effort to raise awareness.
By the end of her session, participants had gained practical knowledge about menstrual products and were inspired to engage in discussions about menstrual health. The combination of informative demonstrations and open dialogue aimed to improve awareness and practices related to menstrual health within the community.