Fatshimetrie: Menstrual poverty in the Democratic Republic of Congo
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, thousands of women and girls face significant challenges during their menstrual cycles. This reality, long ignored and taboo, deeply affects the lives of these women, impacting their physical, mental and emotional health. Menstrual poverty, still largely underestimated, is a crucial issue that requires urgent attention.
Faced with a shortage of resources and knowledge on menstrual management, many women and girls find themselves forced to use inadequate means to cope with this monthly period. Using fabrics, baby diapers or even reusing disposable sanitary protection, these practices expose these women to significant health risks. In the absence of access to adequate sanitation facilities and drinking water, the living conditions of these women are even more precarious.
Ms. Océane Wanita, a social entrepreneur, and Dr. Pierrot Olongo, an obstetrician, are sounding the alarm on this little-known reality. Their commitment to raising awareness and educating women on the healthy management of menstruation represents a glimmer of hope in a context marked by silence and stigma.
The stigma surrounding menstruation in many communities in the DRC is a major obstacle to women’s empowerment. The lack of education on menstrual health contributes to perpetuating dangerous practices and keeping these women in a cycle of precariousness. It is crucial to break this taboo and provide women with the knowledge and resources they need to experience their menstruation with dignity and health.
Faced with these challenges, concrete actions must be taken to guarantee women’s access to quality menstrual hygiene products, adequate sanitation facilities and appropriate education. It is imperative to make menstrual poverty a public health priority in the DRC and to mobilize the whole of society to support women in their quest for menstrual well-being.
Ultimately, the fight against menstrual poverty in the DRC can only be carried out through a global, inclusive and awareness-raising approach. It is time to break the silence, lift the taboos and take action to offer Congolese women and girls the dignity and respect they deserve during their periods. Fatshimetrie, taking a close look at this reality, is a necessity to promote gender equality and women’s health in the Democratic Republic of Congo.