Dr. Isa Musa recalls one of his experiences with a patient who was facing infertility challenges. According to him, the patient, a young lady in her late 20s, was presented to him as not being able to conceive after four years of marriage.
By Shafa’atu Suleiman
During the consultation session, she told the doctor how she used a piece of wood years back to block her menstrual blood, as it was her first time experiencing it. Out of ignorance, she took it to be a taboo and to protect her dark secret, she took the action which she believed was the best. The doctor, shocked and doubtful of her revelation, quickly booked her for an ultrasound.
The result was a shocking revelation. The Healthy Taboo Menstruation is a natural monthly process in which the uterus sheds its lining, preparing for a potential pregnancy. It signifies reproductive health in individuals with female reproductive organs, involving the release of blood and tissue through the vagina. According to Dr. Isa, the average age of menarche (the first menstruation) ranges from 12 to 16 years, while menopause (the cessation of menstruation) occurs between 40 and 60 years.
The gynecologist emphasizes that menstruation is a healthy occurrence that indicates hormonal balance, reproductive health, and fertility. It also serves as a process of uterine cleansing, which may reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as endometrial cancer. He warns against using menstrual suppressants without a doctor’s advice, as they can pose health risks.
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In many African cultures, menstruation is surrounded by stereotypes and misconceptions (menstrual myths), leading many young girls to conceal it as a secret. In some cultures, menstruating women are viewed as unclean or associated with magical powers, curses, or divine punishment. Others believe that a menstruating woman can contaminate food, water, or sacred objects, resulting in practices such as confining them in separate huts or rooms.
These harmful beliefs not only isolate women but also create stigma and fear. Although several organizations are working to raise awareness about menstruation and menstrual hygiene, the effectiveness of these initiatives in reaching rural areas, where the need is greatest, remains a significant challenge.
According to a UNFPA study, menstrual myths in Nigeria include that women should not cook when menstruating and that women should stay away from public activities during menstruation.
Lil-lets lists five top menstrual myths in South Africa including period blood is dirty, don’t speak about menstruation, your period means that you have been sexually active, your period is a sign of disease, your period is a sign of disease, and tampons can break your virginity.
In Uganda, according to UNFPA, menstruating women and girls are excluded from public life, suffer Barriers to opportunities, Barriers to sanitation and health, and heightened vulnerability
According to WHO, “Infertility Infertility affects millions of people – and has an impact on their families and communities. Estimates suggest that approximately one in every six people of reproductive age worldwide experience infertility in their lifetime. In the male reproductive system, infertility is most commonly caused by problems in the ejection of semen, absence or low levels of sperm, or abnormal shape (morphology) and movement (motility) of the sperm.
“In the female reproductive system, infertility may be caused by a range of abnormalities of the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and the endocrine system, among others. Infertility can be primary or secondary. Primary infertility is when a pregnancy has never been achieved by a person, and secondary infertility is when at least one prior pregnancy has been achieved.
“Fertility care encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infertility. Equal and equitable access to fertility care remains a challenge in most countries; particularly in low and middle-income countries. Fertility care is rarely prioritized in national universal health coverage benefit packages.”
