Some girls in Busoga sub-region resort to molding sanitary pads using soil due to menstrual hygiene challenges, highlighting a pervasive issue often discussed in secrecy.
Halima Nansubuga (pseudonym), a Senior Two student at Romaza College in Jinja City, shares her experience of using soil and rugs due to unaffordable sanitary pads. She describes the discomfort and inconvenience, but notes it as “better than nothing.”
Nansubuga’s makeshift pad involves piling soil in a polythene bag with a small towel, a method she finds time-consuming, especially during school days.
Similarly, Sandra Nankinga (pseudonym), a Primary Six pupil at Buyala Primary School, recalls using mattress pieces during her first menstrual cycle, illustrating the lack of support and guidance for young girls experiencing menstruation.
However, Dr. Claire Tulilaba from Budondo Health Centre IV warns against using soil, rags, or sponges, emphasizing potential health risks and advocating for safer practices.
Ms. Rose Kagere, the executive director of Women Rights Initiative (WORI), underscores the challenges faced by girls aged nine to 18 during menstruation, including financial constraints and stigma, exacerbated by inadequate facilities in schools.
