Namibia commemorates Menstrual Hygiene Day

Namibia has joined the rest of the world in commemorating Menstrual Hygiene Day. This year’s theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”, aims to eliminate menstrual taboos. The date, May 28th, symbolises the average 28-day menstrual cycle and the average duration of menstruation, which is five days, thus reinforcing the importance of the cause it champions.

Poor menstrual hygiene, however, poses serious health risks, like reproductive and urinary tract infections which can result in future infertility and birth complications. Neglecting to wash hands after changing menstrual products can spread infections, such as hepatitis B and thrush. We spoke to Paulina Kambonde-Tshanga, the Founder and Director of the K’Negongo Foundation and the driving force behind Mary Pad, a locally produced sanitary pad that is transforming menstrual health in our community.