Blessing Stephen, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights advocate, has unveiled a book aimed at addressing period stigma and menstrual poverty among adolescent girls.
“Flowing Forward: A Teen’s Guide to Menstrual Health and Rights” provides practical information to help teenage girls understand menstruation, puberty, hygiene and their rights.
Stephen said the book was developed to give girls accurate information and emotional support while helping them navigate the changes of puberty.
“Every girl deserves access to factual information, safe menstrual products and clean facilities, regardless of where she lives,” she said.
She added that the book challenges myths and misconceptions that often create fear, embarrassment and silence around menstruation. It explains the science of menstruation and offers practical guidance on maintaining proper menstrual hygiene.
Stephen said the book also examines menstrual poverty and its effects on girls’ well-being, education and participation in society. Access to menstrual products, clean facilities and reliable information, she noted, should not be treated as privileges.
The author included a “Letter to My Younger Self” and real-life stories to help girls feel understood during adolescence. These stories reassure young girls that their experiences are normal and that they are not alone.
Stephen, who is also a social worker, said her advocacy is driven by the need to protect the dignity and confidence of adolescent girls. She has conducted grassroots community outreaches, hygiene workshops and school visits across Lagos to promote menstrual health education. These initiatives also involve distributing essential sanitary products to girls, particularly those in underserved communities.
“My goal is to ensure that no girl is silenced by shame or restricted because she lacks access to menstrual resources,” she said.
Stephen called for stronger collaboration among parents, schools, communities and relevant organisations to improve menstrual health education and access for adolescent girls. She said continued advocacy is essential to creating an environment where girls can discuss menstruation openly without fear, shame or discrimination.
