On July 26, 2018, a meeting on “Adolescent Health and Menstural Education” was conducted for girls from classes V to XI in two separate sessions (V & VI and VII to X) under the able guidance of Dr. Charu Bhandari (Science Department Head), Ms. Shanti Shekar (Head Teacher), Ms. Monika Suleria (Head Co-ordinator) and Ms. Sushma Yadav (secondary school Science teacher).
The topics discussed by the teachers were age appropriate and very much the need of the hour. The informal interactions included topics such as distinguishing between good and bad touch, safety at home with relatives, at tuitions, on roads and public places, avoiding interaction with strangers, prioritising personal hygiene, good and balanced diet and menstrual education.
Apart from the above topics, teachers also guided the VII to X grade girls in menstruation health and hygiene – an issue that every girl experiences and has to deal with once she enters adolescence. The girls were guided properly in aspects of hormone related changes, puberty, etc. Information on menstrual cycles helped the girls to confide in the teachers about the fears and misinformation they have been exposed to. Students were advised to participate in sports activities during periods and treat those days just as any other day. Guidelines regarding the proper use and disposal methods of sanitary napkins were given.
The teenagers who are exposed to many influences, external and internal, were made aware of the physical and mental changes that typically occur during this stage. It was a very informative session for the girls and the teachers were happy to have answered questions which would otherwise have lingered in their minds. Most importantly, students were asked to seek advice only from their parents and teachers so that they are guided properly.
