For young South African women, sport is a wellspring of empowerment, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a healthy body. But for many girls, a natural biological process – menstruation – can throw a wrench in their athletic aspirations.
Let’s face it, periods can be messy, uncomfortable, and sometimes downright painful. When you’re on the field, the last thing you want to worry about is leaks or cramps disrupting your game. However, research shows a concerning reality – a significant number of menstruating girls drop out of sports around the time they reach puberty, which often coincides with their first period.
Why are Periods Sidelining Our Future Stars?
There are several factors at play. Period poverty is a major issue, with many girls lacking access to sanitary products, making participation in sports uncomfortable and even impossible. Additionally, a culture of period shame can make girls feel self-conscious and reluctant to discuss their menstrual needs with coaches or teammates.
Owning Your Period, Owning Your Performance
Think of female sports stars Janine van Wyk, Caster Semenya, Kgothatso Montjane, and Thembi Kgatlana, who have to manage their periods for peak performance. It’s time to rewrite the narrative. The good news is, periods don’t have to be a barrier to athletic success. Here’s how South African girls can navigate menstruation and stay on top of their game:
- Knowledge is power: Educate yourself about your menstrual cycle. Understanding hormonal changes and their impact on your body can help you plan and adjust your training schedule accordingly.
- Find the right gear: Explore different types of period products – pads, tampons, or menstrual cups – to find what works best for you during physical activity.
- Open communication: Don’t be afraid to talk to a trusted adult – a coach, parent, or healthcare professional – about your menstrual needs. They should be able to provide support and guidance.
- Embrace the support system: Let your teammates know what you’re going through. Often, they may be experiencing similar challenges and can offer empathy and understanding.
Collective Action: Creating a Period-Positive Sports Environment
The responsibility doesn’t fall solely on individual athletes. Here’s a call to action for various stakeholders:
- Schools and sports clubs: Implement programs that educate young athletes about menstruation and create a supportive environment where girls feel comfortable managing their periods.
- Government and NGOs: Address period poverty by ensuring access to sanitary products for girls from all backgrounds.
- Media: Promote positive narratives around menstruation in sports, showcasing successful female athletes who manage their periods effectively.
Engen Sports Steps Up: #ItsYourMoment for All
There’s exciting news on the horizon! The Minister of Menstruation is proud to partner with Engen Sports, an initiative passionate about creating opportunities for young athletes. Their initiative, #ItsYourMoment, empowers girls to chase their sporting dreams.
This partnership is a game-changer for young menstruating athletes in South Africa. Here’s what it entails:
- Providing essential resources: Engen Sports and the Minister of Menstruation will work together to distribute period products to young athletes in need, ensuring they have what they need to participate comfortably.
- Educational workshops: The partnership will see the development and rollout of educational workshops in schools and sports clubs. These workshops will address topics like menstrual hygiene management, understanding the menstrual cycle for optimal performance, and fostering open communication about periods.
- Building a supportive network: Together, Engen Sports and the Minister of Menstruation will create a network of support for young female athletes. This network will connect them with mentors, coaches, and healthcare professionals who understand their unique needs.
By working together, we can break down the barriers related to menstruation in South African sports. Let’s empower young girls to embrace their bodies, own their periods, and continue to shine on the field. Remember, periods are a normal part of life, and they shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your athletic dreams. Now go out there, seize your #ItsYourMoment, and slay your goals!