Menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM) remains a widespread challenge in Nigeria, where an estimated 37 million women and girls lack access to affordable menstrual products. This lack of access contributes to health risks, stigma, and disruptions in daily life, including school attendance.
The Pad A Girl Initiative improves menstrual health through education, sanitary product provision, and community engagement, ensuring that menstruation no longer undermines dignity, health, or participation in community life.
Problem
Period poverty in Nigeria is driven by economic, social, and cultural barriers. Approximately 44 % of women and girls cannot afford even low‑cost sanitary pads, forcing many to resort to unsafe alternatives that increase health risks. Stigma and silence further compound these challenges, leaving girls without the knowledge or support they need. Due to these barriers, about 23 % of adolescent girls report missing school during menstruation, and studies in parts of Northern Nigeria indicate that menstruation‑related challenges contribute to girls missing school and, in some cases, dropping out altogether.
Our Approach
● Education & Awareness: We deliver comprehensive menstrual health education to girls while engaging boys, parents, and teachers to build supportive, stigma‑free environments.
● Sanitary Kit Provision: We provide sanitary kits that include safe and hygienic menstrual products, along with educational resources such as the Dear Period book to guide young girls on menstrual health.
● Community Engagement: Facilitating workshops and dialogues in schools and communities to normalize menstrual health conversations and break cultural barriers.
● Monitoring & Learning: Using feedback and key indicators, we refine program delivery and enhance outcomes.