Breaking the silence: Transforming menstrual health in Zimbabwe

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ENSTRUATION, a natural biological process, is an undeniable aspect of human existence.

Yet, in many parts of the world, it is shrouded in secrecy, shame and stigma. In Zimbabwe, the challenges surrounding menstrual health management (MHM) are compounded by a confluence of cultural taboos, economic hardship and inadequate infrastructure. Despite the critical role that MHM plays in health, education, gender equality and overall socio-economic development, it remains a neglected issue.

The reality for many girls and women in Zimbabwe is stark. Menstruation is not merely a private matter — it affects their ability to participate fully in school, work, and community life. For those living in poverty, the monthly cycle becomes a monthly crisis, highlighting systemic inequalities and a lack of prioritisation in public policy. Addressing MHM is not just a moral imperative; it is a crucial step towards achieving Zimbabwe’s development goals and empowering its women and girls.

At the heart of the problem is period poverty — the inability to afford or access menstrual hygiene products and facilities. Disposable sanitary pads, the most commonly used option by 59,4% of girls in Zimbabwe, are prohibitively expensive for many families. Rural areas bear the brunt of this crisis, with girls often resorting to unsafe and improvised alternatives such as cloth, tissue paper, or even leaves. These solutions not only fail to provide adequate protection but also pose significant health risks, including infections and long-term complications.

The problem extends beyond products. Clean and private facilities for managing menstruation are scarce, particularly in rural schools. Over 70% of these schools lack adequate water supplies and very few have incinerators or sanitary bins for the safe disposal of used pads. This infrastructural deficit exacerbates the challenges faced by menstruators, making them more likely to skip school or drop out altogether.

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The consequences of poor MHM ripple across multiple dimensions of life. For schoolgirls, it translates to missed classes, which accumulate over time to undermine their academic performance. According to Unicef, a significant number of girls miss one to two days of school per menstrual cycle due to severe cramps or lack of menstrual products.

In rural areas, this absenteeism can account for nearly a quarter of the academic year. The long-term impact is devastating: reduced educational attainment, limited career opportunities and a perpetuation of the cycle of poverty.

The psychological toll is equally significant. Poor menstrual health management erodes self-esteem and fosters anxiety, particularly in environments where menstruation is treated as a shameful secret. Girls fear ridicule from peers and may isolate themselves during their periods, withdrawing from both academic and social activities. For girls with disabilities, the challenges are amplified; most schools lack accessible toilets or private washing areas, further marginalising an already vulnerable group.

Cultural and societal norms in Zimbabwe add another layer of complexity. Despite some progress, menstruation remains a deeply taboo subject in many communities. Myths and misconceptions abound, with some believing that menstrual blood can be used for witchcraft or that menstruating women are impure.

These outdated beliefs perpetuate stigma, silence open discussions and exclude menstruators from social and religious activities. Even within families, conversations about menstruation are often avoided, leaving many girls uninformed about how to manage their cycles.

This cultural silence has tangible consequences. Comprehensive education about menstruation is severely lacking, particularly for boys, who grow up without understanding the basic realities of the menstrual cycle. While 60% of girls reportedly receive some information about menstruation from their mothers or teachers, the quality and depth of this guidance vary widely. The absence of accurate, age-appropriate education perpetuates ignorance and fuels harmful attitudes, making it even harder for girls to advocate for their own needs.

Zimbabwe’s economic struggles exacerbate these issues. The COVID-19 pandemic further strained household incomes and disrupted supply chains, making menstrual products even less accessible. Although efforts have been made to distribute free sanitary products in schools, these initiatives are far from sufficient to meet the widespread demand. The lack of local manufacturing capabilities for reusable products, such as washable pads, limits sustainable solutions to period poverty.

The path forward requires a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, access to affordable menstrual products must be prioritised. Subsidising sanitary pads and promoting the local production of reusable options could significantly alleviate period poverty. This initiative will not only address immediate needs but also create jobs and stimulate the economy.

Improving infrastructure is another critical step. Schools, particularly in rural areas, must be equipped with private washing areas, clean water, soap and facilities for safe disposal of menstrual waste. Without these basic amenities, girls will continue to face barriers to education and participation.

Education and awareness are equally vital. Comprehensive menstrual health education should be integrated into school curricula, targeting both girls and boys. Normalising conversations about menstruation can help to dismantle harmful stereotypes and foster a supportive environment.

Community engagement is also essential. Religious and traditional leaders have the power to challenge entrenched beliefs and advocate for cultural shifts that prioritise the dignity well-being of menstruators.

Policy reform and advocacy are needed to elevate MHM on the national agenda. Establishing a dedicated menstrual health desk within the Women’s Affairs ministry could ensure sustained focus and coordination. National guidelines on MHM should be developed, with input from NGOs, healthcare providers and community leaders.

Zimbabwe has seen glimpses of progress. Organisations like the Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe Chapter are leading efforts to tackle menstrual health challenges. Initiatives like the Torches project, which addresses menstrual health alongside gender-based violence, demonstrate the potential for integrated solutions. However, these efforts remain piecemeal and insufficient to address the scale of the problem.

Breaking the silence around menstruation is not merely a women’s issue; it is a societal imperative. Ensuring that every girl and woman can manage her menstruation safely, hygienically and with dignity is fundamental to achieving gender equality and inclusive development.

The call to action is clear. Zimbabwe must confront the socio-economic and cultural barriers that hinder menstrual health management. By doing so, the nation can unlock the potential of its girls and women, driving progress for all. The time for transformative change is now.

• Leo Muzivoreva is a Zimbabwean writer with works featured in various African magazines. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Media Studies, both from Midlands State University.