SA Women Called to Help Break the Stigma Attached to Feminine Hygiene
GynaGuard is calling on all fearless women to help change the narrative around feminine wellness in South Africa. A mental health study conducted by Deloitte offers insight into the worries and fears of Gen Z and millennials. According to the study, nearly half of Gen Zs – 46% and 39% of millennials report experiencing heightened levels of anxiety and stress, either all the time or most of the time.
We all know that stress negatively impacts our physical and emotional state, but many women likely do not know that stress also impacts their vaginal pH balance. This may lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, burning, and an increased risk of infections.
In South Africa, the stigma surrounding feminine hygiene continues to have a detrimental impact on the lives of women and girls. Cultural taboos and societal norms perpetuate silence and shame, limiting access to information and support.
Due to the stigma attached to this topic, many women and girls are left in the dark, facing misconceptions and myths. This lack of education contributes to a sense of shame and embarrassment, eroding their self-esteem and overall well-being.
Conversations surrounding feminine hygiene are often stifled, deepening the taboo. The absence of open discussions hampers women and girls’ ability to ask questions, and make informed decisions about their hygiene and well-being.
The impact of the stigma goes beyond emotional and mental well-being. In South Africa, access to suitable hygiene products is a challenge for many women and girls, leaving them without affordable and appropriate options. Consequently, their comfort, hygiene, and overall wellness may be compromised. The stigma surrounding feminine hygiene can also hinder girls’ access to education by contributing to absenteeism and limiting their ability to fully participate in school activities.
Addressing the stigma attached to feminine hygiene is paramount for the overall well-being and empowerment of women and girls in South Africa. Breaking the silence and promoting open discussions are critical steps toward creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
South African Feminine Hygiene Intimate Care branda, GynaGuard, says it is committed to breaking down these barriers by demystifying feminine hygiene and destigmatising the use of words like vulva, vagina and labia. The brand says it firmly believes that educating women and girls about feminine hygiene can empower them to thrive whilst encouraging husbands and fathers to understand and support their wives and daughters.
In an effort to change this status quo, GynaGuard launched its first-ever ambassador search. The brand sought three extraordinary and fearless women to become the Face of GynaGuard. This initiative aims to foster a more holistic understanding of women’s wellness and encourage open discussions around feminine hygiene and well-being. The year-long Face of GynaGuard brand ambassadorship will run from September 2023 to August 2024.
Zizipho Quma, GynaGuard’s Brand Manager, expresses the brand’s vision, “Women and girls deserve to be their true selves without fear of stigma or judgement. They should feel empowered to pursue their dreams and passions and have their voices heard. We want women to find the freedom to just be.”
Quma emphasises; “Initiatives like the Face of GynaGuard play a crucial role in advocating for the importance of feminine hygiene products and ensuring that women have access to the tools they need for a better, more empowered future.”
It is time to end the silence and dismantle the barriers that hinder women and girls in South Africa. By engaging in open and honest conversation, we can create a South Africa where feminine wellness is openly discussed, stigma is eradicated, and every woman and girl is empowered to lead a healthy, confident, and fulfilled life.