Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
Health and Wellness
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Health and Wellness
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Subject: Physical Education Health Core
Class: SHS 2
Term: 1st Term
Week: 19
Grade code: 2.1.3.LI.4
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 3
Content standard code: 2.1.3.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.1.3.LI.4
Theme: Physical Activity and Health
Subtheme: Health and Wellness
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This lesson introduces the essential topics of menstrual health and hygiene. Menstruation is a natural and healthy biological process experienced by females, signifying a healthy reproductive system. In our Ghanaian society, there are often myths and a lack of open discussion around this topic, which can lead to poor hygiene, health problems, and stigma. Understanding menstrual health is crucial for *everyone*—both males and females—to foster a supportive, respectful, and healthy school and home environment. This knowledge empowers individuals to manage their health with dignity and to support friends and family members effectively.
This section breaks down the essential information needed to understand menstrual health and hygiene. A. What is Menstruation?
Menstruation, commonly known as a "period," is the monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus (womb). This lining, which is made of tissue and blood, exits the body through the vagina. It is a natural process: It is a sign that a female's reproductive system is healthy and functioning. It is NOT a sickness or a curse: It is a normal part of life for females from puberty until menopause. The Menstrual Cycle: It happens in a cycle, which is typically around 28 days long, but can vary from person to person (e.g., 21 to 35 days). The bleeding (period) itself usually lasts for 3-7 days. B. Key Definitions: Menstrual Health vs. Menstrual Hygiene
These two terms are related but have different meanings. Menstrual Health: This is a broad concept. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in relation to the menstrual cycle. This means a person should have: Information: Accurate knowledge about menstruation. Materials: Access to affordable and safe sanitary products (like pads, cloths, etc.). Facilities: Access to clean water, soap, and a private place to change and dispose of materials (like a clean toilet). Support: An environment at home, school, and in the community that is free from stigma, teasing, or shame. Menstrual Hygiene: This is the practical aspect of managing menstruation. It refers to the specific actions taken to stay clean and healthy during a period. Key principles include: Using a clean material to absorb menstrual blood (e.g., sanitary pad, clean cloth). Changing the material regularly (every 4-6 hours is recommended for pads) to prevent infections and odour. Washing the genital area with clean water (and mild soap if preferred, on the outside only). Washing hands with soap and water before and after changing sanitary materials. Properly disposing of used materials. C. The Menstrual Hygiene Kit
A menstrual hygiene kit is a small pouch or bag containing essential items for managing a period, especially when away from home (e.g., at school).