International Day of the Girl Child: "Period Talk" Matters

October 11 is International Day of the Girl Child. World Vision Papua New Guinea puts a spotlight on the challenges girls and women in Papua New Guinea face that prevent them from managing their menstruation effectively. Misconceptions and cultural beliefs surrounding menstruation can have an effect on their participation at school and work and can impact negatively on their health and development, including self-esteem.

Through its "Water and Healthy Life Project" in Hanuabada Village funded by the New Zealand Government, World Vision is making menstrual hygiene management an important component of its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) program in Port Moresby. To address misinformation about menstruation among girls and boys and promote good menstrual hygiene practices, World Vision has recently conducted a Menstrual Hygiene Management Orientation at Hagara Primary School where 13-year-old Valerie goes to school.