“Empowering Through Education - Phin Borey's Journey in Menstrual Health”
Phin Borey, a dedicated teacher at Serey Bavet Primary School in Preah Sdach District, Cambodia, yearned for a deeper understanding of reproductive and menstrual health. Despite her past lessons and experiences, uncertainties lingered, impacting her own well-being and hindering her ability to effectively address student questions on the topic.
Prior to attending the training offered by Koampia Phum Yoeung Organization (KPY) in collaboration with the Preah Sdach District OD Office, Phin Borey's knowledge on menstrual health was fragmented. She grappled with questions about managing menstrual cycles, unaware of the potential harm caused by traditional practices like heavy lifting, restrictive diets, and consuming cold drinks.
The KPY training program proved to be a turning point. Phin Borey gained valuable insights into menstrual health management, learning practical approaches to:
● Preparation and Prevention: Understanding the menstrual cycle and identifying healthy practices for pre-menstrual phases.
● Hygiene During Menstruation: Learning about proper hygiene practices to maintain health and comfort during menstruation.
● Post-Menstrual Care: Understanding the importance of self-care following menstruation.
Empowered with newfound knowledge, Phin Borey embraced positive changes in her own life. She adopted healthy habits, eliminating practices like excessive lifting and restrictive diets that could potentially affect her health. "I finally understood the importance of listening to my body," she shared. Phin Borey's passion extended beyond self-improvement. She actively disseminated the acquired knowledge to her students. She fostered an environment where students felt comfortable discussing their concerns and seeking menstrual health advice. "Now, my students know they can come to me with any questions they have," Phin Borey explained. "There's no shame in talking about menstruation." She aimed to normalize conversations about menstruation, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to navigate this natural biological process.
Phin Borey's dedication didn't stop there. She recognized the need for readily available menstrual hygiene products at the school. She planned to discuss this critical issue with the school management, advocating for their provision to ensure student well-being. "Every girl should have access to the resources they need to manage their periods with dignity," she stated.
Phin Borey expressed her heartfelt gratitude to KPY for facilitating the training program. The knowledge gained empowered her to address her own questions and equip her students with valuable information. Now, she envisions a future where menstrual health education becomes more prevalent, benefiting her colleagues, friends, and especially young girls navigating puberty. "This training has been life-changing," Phin Borey concluded. "I'm committed to sharing this knowledge and breaking the silence around menstruation."
Phin Borey's story exemplifies the transformative power of education in promoting menstrual health awareness. By empowering herself and her students with knowledge, she is paving the way for a healthier and more informed future generation.