What is World Menstrual Hygiene Day?
World Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on May 28, is a day dedicated to breaking the silence, raising awareness, and challenging taboos around menstruation. It is an international advocacy platform that brings together NGOs, governments, the private sector, and individuals to promote menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) for all women and girls.
At OWACDO (OKAHA Women and Children Development Organisation), we see this day as a critical moment to focus not just on access to sanitary products, but also on the broader conversation about menstrual dignity, stigma, education, and inclusivity, especially for women aged 35 and above who are often left out of menstrual health programming.
Why May 28?
The date May 28 was chosen symbolically:
- May is the 5th month, representing the average 5-day duration of menstruation.
- The number 28 represents the average 28-day cycle of menstruation.
It’s more than a date—it’s a commemoration.
Why Menstrual Hygiene Day Matters in Nigeria
In Nigeria, millions of women and girls continue to face barriers to menstrual health. These include:
- Limited access to affordable sanitary products
- Lack of clean water and sanitation facilities
- Persistent stigma and cultural taboos
- Insufficient menstrual education, especially in rural communities
- Neglect of older women dealing with perimenopause and menopause
At OWACDO, we recognize that menstruation doesn’t stop at adolescence. Through our work, we’ve found that many Nigerian women over 35 face menstrual discrimination, isolation, and silence—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Our advocacy ensures these voices are not left behind.
OWACDO’s Role in Advancing Menstrual Dignity
As a grassroots organization based in Nigeria, OWACDO uses community education, media advocacy, school outreach, and public rallies to promote menstrual equity. For World Menstrual Hygiene Day, we:
- Organize awareness walks and rallies in places like Makurdi (Read: Makurdi Mega Rally Marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day)
- Distribute dignity kits to vulnerable women and girls
- Train health workers on how to support women facing menstrual-related challenges
- Include older women in our menstrual health programs
- Collaborate with partners like Fòs Feminista and AFD to scale our impact
Our 2025 Rally Theme
| “Menstruation Doesn’t Stop at 35 — Let’s Talk About It.”
We carried this message proudly through the streets of Makurdi, along with taglines like:
- “Talk menopause like you talk menses”
- “Respect, Rights, and Dignity for Women 35+”
- “Stop the Shame, Start the Talk—Menopause Matters!”
Our goal is to normalize open conversation around menstruation at all ages, from puberty to menopause.