Did you know, some cultures still believe menstruating women are “impure” or “unclean”, perpetuating stigma and shame?

The belief that menstruating women are impure or unclean often stems from ancient traditions and religious interpretations that associate menstruation with impurity, sin, or bad luck. In many African communities, these views have been passed down through generations, turning menstruation into a taboo topic shrouded in secrecy and shame. As a result, girls are often made to feel dirty and excluded from certain spaces — limiting their rights and full participation in society.

This deeply rooted stigma continues to fuel harmful taboos, where menstruation is treated as something shameful or hidden. Girls frequently stay home from school during their periods to avoid embarrassment, losing valuable learning time and falling behind. Others suffer in silence due to a lack of access to sanitary products or safe spaces.

Menstruation is not a curse — it is a natural biological function. When society treats it with shame, it damages the confidence, dignity, and opportunities of girls and women.

To dismantle this harmful mindset, we must involve entire communities — especially men and leaders — in the conversation. When these influencers openly challenge outdated beliefs and promote awareness, they help create a culture where no girl is seen as impure because of her period. Education is key: when girls are equipped with knowledge and support, they can manage their menstruation with pride and dignity. And when boys and men understand the truth, they become allies in breaking the cycle of shame.

Menstrual hygiene is not just a women’s issue — it affects public health, education, gender equality, and economic growth. We must replace silence with dialogue and myths with facts. Only by normalizing menstruation and creating period-friendly environments can we empower girls to navigate life with confidence.

“My First Period” booklet by Royalty World is one of the tools we’ve used to change the narrative — a practical, confidence-building booklet that helps young girls navigate their first period with clarity and pride. Over the years, it has sparked conversations, restored dignity, and made it easier for families to talk about menstrual health openly. A total of 2,730 My First Period booklets have been distributed.

Let’s keep the conversation going. How can we work together to break the silence and end the stigma — for good?