In the cities, where sanitary products and health experts are available for support, young women are expected to go through the ‘period journey’ smoothly.

But that cannot be guaranteed in the wake of the economic crisis that has worsened the living standards of many. The situation gets worse for girls in deprived rural areas who have often had it rough.

Various studies have linked improper and unhygienic menstrual practices, especially in low-income settings to reproductive tract infections, urogenital and other diseases as well as poor psychological outcomes.

Girls in the Upper East and Volta Regions can now heave a sigh of relief as they will receive sanitary pads to aid their menstrual hygiene and also ensure they enjoy a smooth period journey.

Prices of sanitary pads have shot up in recent times making it difficult for girls to buy with many falling prey to men and other abusers in order to buy some.

The situation is, however, set to change with the intervention of the Sylvia Foundation.

Speaking to JoyNews at the launch of the foundation, the founder Sylvia Lawson said, “menstruation is a natural process for girls, it leaves them with no choice, it is therefore crucial to give these girls the necessary items needed for these girls to have a safe period journey”.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tema West, Anna Adukwei Addo, lauded the move, noting that her outfit is poised to resolve issues related to the girl child.

“It is a very laudable move that will go a long way to help these children”. She also noted that helping these girls get access to daily necessities will promote SDG goal 5 which is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

According to her, this is a step towards solving marginalisation against women.

Some students at the event expressed gratitude to the foundation for embarking on that journey.