By Charles Tawiah, GNA
Asuofua (Ash), May 29, GNA – Ms. Jennifer Sarkodie Addo, a Public Health Nurse, has advised women and girls to seek professional medical attention regarding menstrual irregularities, stressing that menstrual cycles differ from one individual to another.
She said variations in menstrual cycles, dates and periods were influenced by several factors and should be properly assessed by qualified health professionals before any treatment was administered.
Ms. Sarkodie Addo gave the advice during a World Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration at Asuofua in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region.
She was responding to a question from Nana Afia Boatemaa, the Achiasehemaa, who sought clarification on why menstruation cycles, dates and periods differed among women.
According to her, factors such as heredity, diet, environmental conditions and other biological characteristics contributed to variations in menstrual cycles among individuals.
She explained that some women experienced regular, irregular or transitional menstrual patterns, which could result from natural physiological changes or underlying infections and health conditions.
Ms. Sarkodie Addo noted that menstrual bleeding could last between five and seven days and that menstrual cycles could vary from the commonly known 28-day cycle, depending on the individual.
She cautioned against self-medication, stressing that persistent symptoms should be evaluated by qualified health personnel to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
She said seeking professional medical advice before resorting to herbal remedies was important since some menstrual variations occurred naturally and might not require treatment.
“It is always advisable to seek guidance from qualified medical personnel before taking any medication because some conditions may be normal and not require treatment,” she said.
Ms. Sarkodie Addo also advised adolescent girls to reduce excessive consumption of sweets and sugary drinks, saying such habits could contribute to certain infections and other health challenges.
The programme was organised by the Atwima Nwabiagya North District Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES) under the theme, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” to educate adolescent pupils on proper menstrual hygiene practices.
As part of the event, 1,300 sanitary pads were distributed to pupils from 10 schools within the Asuofua Circuit.
The programme brought together teachers, pupils, parents, members of the clergy, traditional authorities and other stakeholders.
GNA
Edited by Yussif Ibrahim/Benjamin Mensah