An awareness session on menstrual hygiene and the distribution of reusable sanitary napkins was conducted at Mewi Higher Secondary School, located below Bible College in Kohima on March 17. The event aimed to educate students and promote healthy hygiene menstrual practices.
Under Secretary of IDAN, I. Changsang, speaking as the chief guest of the programme, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in building an ecosystem that addresses critical health issues. He stressed the need to openly discuss menstrual health and hygiene, particularly due to the stigma often associated with it, which disproportionately affects women.
Changsang highlighted that men should also be included in these conversations to raise awareness and sensitize them on the topic. He commended NHIDCL and the Doctors For You for organizing the programme and assured that the Nagaland government is committed to support and facilitate similar initiatives. He expressed the need to expand such programmes beyond schools to churches, social gatherings, and other platforms, as parents and communities also need to be informed and sensitized.
Changsang further elaborated on IDAN’s efforts to prioritize health through various partnerships and CSR projects, ensuring that basic medical services reach all districts of Nagaland. He also mentioned about the ongoing efforts to develop policies that address grassroots-level issues while influencing decision-makers at the policy level for greater impact.
Guest of honour, CDPO Urban ICDS, Social Welfare Department, Reyivolu Kezo, spoke about the significance of adolescent health. She explained that adolescence, spanning ages 11 to 18, is a critical transitional phase from childhood to adulthood, marked by significant physical, emotional, cognitive, and psychological changes. She emphasized that this period represents a window of opportunity to positively influence young girls’ development. She highlighted the importance of proper nutrition, a balanced diet, and maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Kezo also addressed the need to use safe and healthy sanitary products, cautioning against low-quality pads that can cause allergies or discomfort. She stressed the importance of open conversations about menstrual health, noting that many girls miss school or drop out due to menstruation-related challenges. Additionally, she pointed out the environmental impact of disposable sanitary waste, estimating that a single woman generates waste equivalent to two truckloads in her lifetime. Kezo encouraged the use of reusable pads and urged girls to prioritize their health.
A gynaecologist, Dr. Kelhousenuo Linyii, conducted the awareness session on menstrual hygiene. She explained that maintaining menstrual hygiene is essential not only for physical health but also for overall well-being. Dr. Linyii emphasized that menstruation is a natural biological process and discussed the importance of proper hygiene practices, including using clean materials, changing pads regularly, and ensuring safe disposal.
She also highlighted the significance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and staying hydrated for a healthy menstrual cycle. Dr. Linyii advised against using scented feminine products and recommended breathable clothing. She introduced the reusable sanitary pads distributed during the event, explaining their benefits and proper usage.
The event successfully promoted open dialogue about menstrual health, encouraged the use of sustainable products, and emphasized the importance of hygiene and well-being for adolescent girls. It was jointly organised by National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL), Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) and Doctors for you and hosted by Mewi Higher Secondary School Kohima.