The menstrual cup was highlighted today on Kenya KTN News for International Women’s Day.
In Kenya, where 9.3 million women and girls of reproductive age menstruate each month, a staggering 65% struggle with period poverty—lacking access to essential menstrual hygiene products. This International Women’s Day, as we focus on “Exhilarate Action” and urgently breaking barriers to gender equality, an innovation nearly a century old is emerging as a game-changer: the menstrual cup.
The Hidden Crisis of Period Poverty
Despite advancements in many sectors, period poverty continues to impact generations of Kenyan women. Many grandmothers and mothers relied on cloth rags to manage their periods—a makeshift solution still used by their granddaughters today. This lack of proper menstrual products has far-reaching consequences, particularly for education.
“Many girls miss up to five to six days of school per month due to a lack of menstrual products, losing nearly 20% of their education annually,” reports one local advocate. Even more concerning, “Three out of 10 girls in Kibera admit they could be tempted to have sex to get a menstrual product.”
A Sustainable Solution
The menstrual cup, though introduced 87 years ago, remains largely unknown and underutilized in Kenya. Made from medical-grade silicone, this reusable product can last up to 10 years, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable options.
Mary Ojwang founder of WOSWA explains, “Conventional materials like tampons and pads contribute up to 150 million tons of waste. One cup avoids the landfills that come from menstrual waste while serving a girl’s needs for a decade.”
The environmental benefits are substantial, but the social impact is even more profound. Organizations like CouldYou? have been distributing menstrual cups to schoolgirls alongside comprehensive education about menstrual hygiene management.
Comprehensive Education
The initiative goes beyond simply providing products. “We involve boys in the sessions even in their classes,” says one program coordinator. “We tell them that if you see a girl who has stained, please don’t laugh at her. If you have your sweater, can you please give it to her and direct her to the nearest place where she can get help.”
This holistic approach promotes the key values of sisterhood and mutual respect while breaking taboos around menstruation.
Comfort and Practicality
Gynecologists recommend the menstrual cup for its safety and comfort. Once inserted, it is barely noticeable, allowing users to engage in sports, sleep, and carry on with daily activities without disruption.
While the cups typically cost between 1,500-2,000 Kenyan Shillings (approximately $12-16 USD) when purchased, free distribution programs ensure access for girls who could not otherwise afford them.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite their benefits, menstrual cups may not be suitable for everyone. Finding the right size and mastering insertion techniques is key to comfort and effectiveness. Proper hygiene and regular cleaning are also essential for safe use.
A Path Forward
As Kenya seeks lasting solutions to period poverty, scaling up access to menstrual cups represents a transformative step toward ensuring no girl misses school, work, or opportunity due to menstruation.
By investing in sustainable menstrual solutions and comprehensive education, Kenya can break down one of the significant barriers to gender equality, empowering girls to stay in school, pursue careers, and contribute equally to economic growth.
The menstrual cup isn’t just a product—it’s a pathway to freedom, dignity, and opportunity for millions of Kenyan women and girls.
