In the field of reproductive health, a great number of important issues are overlooked in both research and policy making because of taboos, biases and disconnect between the decision makers and the people most in need. In addition, much of the research and solutions rarely get translated into practice.

We at WoMena work to change this and to ensure that reproductive health research is systematically applied and that evidence-based, effective, reproductive health technologies and innovative solutions are explored and supported.

In the short-term, we aim to achieve this through research, intervention/implementation support, communication activities and development of advocacy packages. In the long-term, our activities are intended to support the formulation and implementation of policies and programs aimed at introducing acceptable, suitable and safe reproductive health solutions.

We specialise in creating supportive environments for innovations at both the local and national level and have supported over 14 organisations and institutions introduce menstrual cups to +90 communities in Uganda through high-quality program design, training and follow up.

Our objectives:

1. To identify neglected but important reproductive & menstrual health issues  & solutions as well as research, communication and policy translation gaps in the field of reproductive health; and
2. To develop knowledge strategies and tools to address research, communication and policy translation gaps preventing implementation of these solutions.

 Read our operational goals and strategies for 2017 here.

WoMena has identified nine points to be the key elements to any Menstrual Health Programmes. 

1. Being prepared for/understanding:

• Puberty & body changes
• Menstruation & menstrual cycle (incl. how to monitor)
• Link to other SRHR education

2. Menstrual management methods (access, choice & knowing how to use them)

3. Menstrual hygiene

4. Dysmenorrhea:

• Menstrual cramps & pain management

5. Nutrition during menstruation

6. Having access to the following when changing/cleaning:

• Water & sanitation facilities
• Privacy

7. Method disposal (where relevant for the method)

8. Community support & addressing stigma (community & male involvement)

9. Local & national advocacy

Involving males in activities and projects aimed at improvement of female sexual and reproductive health (SRH), and maternal and child health give more positive results. 

In 2014, the Ministry of Health of Uganda acknowledged the importance of male involvement and launched a Male Involvement Strategy (MIS). 

WoMena’s approach to MIS includes: 

1. Exploring and understanding the man’s situation, social background, and perceptions dominating in the society related to SRH and MHM (Menstrual Hygiene Management);
2. Educating men of different age groups and statuses on various SRH and MHM issues;
3. Sensitising them about the need of their contribution and participation in female activities. 

Download WoMena’s Male Involvement Strategy Fact Sheet (MIS) (pdf)

1. Create mottos for boys and men
2. Prepare fathers for a menstrual emergency
3. Discuss the significance of fathers’ role during a child’s puberty
4. Discuss male misconceptions about menstruation
5. Utilize spaces used or accessed by men
6. Male ambassadors & role models
7. Share facts on MHM important to males
8. Share female perspectives with males
9. Add locally-specific male interest topics to the training
10. Positively engage with negative attitudes

Download WoMenas`s 10 PRACTICAL MALE INVOLVEMENT STRATEGIES