Demystifying the Menstruation Process among the Kenyan Girl-Child A Period of Shame: A Socio-Cultural Perspective

This paper provides a critical review of the challenges faced by the girl child during menstruation period. It provides an analysis of various literatures based on these challenges and thus focuses on the Kenyan girl child. The menstruation period among the girl-child in most cultures is termed as a period of shame. Moreover, in most communities, menstruation it negates the girl child towards developing their capacities be it educational, socially and economically. The cultural perception of menstruation is negative towards the girl child thus they are not able to participate in the social activities. The paper further establishes that the perceived cultural practices towards the girl child when menstruating, limits their ability to undertake their role in contributing towards developmental objective. This is compounded by the fact that they are dirty and they are inactive. Moreover, the paper using the literature from other studies establishes that the fact that all are equal in accessing education, they are limited by the fact that menstruation comes in. These prevailing challenges clear affect the girl child towards overall participation. The paper advocates for the girl-child protection and supporting her cause towards realizing her potential thus demystifying the myth and misconception of the menstruation process. Inclusivity of all stakeholders is thus required, more so the provision of free sanitary towels and care for the girl-child.