In an endeavour to empower disabled young girls in Yaounde, Centre Region of Cameroon, Promotion des Handicapés du Cameroun (PROMHANDICAM) has introduced a unique solution—electric bracelets—aimed at helping them master, control, and effectively manage their menstrual cycles.
Highlighting the significance of open discussions about menstrual hygiene, Ornella de Vinyle, a specialist in Health Reproduction, underscored the challenges faced by these girls, often exacerbated by the taboo nature of the topic within some families.
“Some parents do not take time to discuss menstrual subjects with their children. Some still see it as a taboo, leaving the young girl to struggle on her own,” explained Ornella de Vinyle.
The consequences of this neglect manifest in the difficulties these girls encounter, leading to embarrassment and psychological pressure in school environments.
PROMHANDICAM’s initiative seeks to address these challenges by providing electric bracelets to disabled young girls, offering them a dignified and comfortable means to manage their menstrual cycles.
Founder of PROMHANDICAM, Paul Bernard, elucidated the functionality of the bracelets in an interview with Equinoxe TV.
“The electric bracelet will be placed on the hand of each girl. We are dealing with young girls who are blind, who cannot walk, and others. At times they have difficulties in identifying when exactly their menstrual period is to occur. The bracelet will help in signaling them that their menstrual period is around,” he asserted.
This innovative solution provides a five-day advance notification to the young girls, offering them awareness and preparation to navigate this natural aspect of their lives.
Beyond addressing a practical need, the initiative aims to diminish the stigma and challenges associated with menstrual hygiene for disabled girls.
As the program gains traction in Yaounde, PROMHANDICAM is actively seeking government support to expand the project. They have reached out to Cameroon’s Ministry of Basic Education, Youth Affairs, Women, and the Family, appealing for assistance in promoting and implementing the project on a broader scale.
