Menstrual Hygiene Day

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Samantha Saru

Kenya

Sep 15

Joined Dec 28, 2022

In recent years there has been more discussion about Menstruation to demystify myths and taboos surrounding periods. On MHD the conversation about Menstruation continues and provides an opportunity to create more awareness about periods.

Having periods is a normal biological function and yet nothing was most feared and disgusted! 

Here are some examples of ancient Rome superstitions surrounding periods; 

Men will get sour in the presence of a menstruating woman.Crops will become infertile by her touch.Mirrors will become dull if she looks at them.Iron will lose its sharpness and start rusting.Hail and storm can be averted by a menstruating woman exposing herself towards the lightning.Having sex with a menstruating woman during a solar or lunar eclipse or during a new moon can end deadly for a man.

Some of the superstitions in Kenyan communities include:

Women are dirty and sinful during Menstruation. 

Women should not touch their genitsls during menstruation as they will dirty anything else they touch afterwards even if they washed their hands. 

Most of these superstitions and taboos are laughable. They are neither true nor factual but a way of perpetuating fear among young girls and women.

What are some of the taboos and superstitions about Menstruation in your community? 

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