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:
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:
2. Menstrual management methods (access, choice & knowing how to use them)
3. Menstrual hygiene
4. Dysmenorrhea:
5. Nutrition during menstruation
6. Having access to the following when changing/cleaning:
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:
Download WoMena’s Male Involvement Strategy Fact Sheet (MIS) (pdf)