Menarquía en África subsahariana: : entre los desafíos del tabú, las políticas públicas y las expresiones culturales de la feminidad.

Ana Larisa Martínez Herrera

doi:10.35305/cl.vi24.165

Authors

Ana Larisa Martínez Herrera El Colegio de México, México

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35305/cl.vi24.165

Keywords:

Menarche, Sub-Saharan Africa, Menstrual taboo, Public policy, Gender equity

Abstract

This article analyzes menarche in Sub-Saharan Africa as both a biological and cultural event with deep social and gender implications. It explores the rituals and practices associated with the onset of menstruation, as well as the challenges faced by girls due to menstrual taboos, misinformation, and lack of access to hygiene products. Drawing on case studies from Malawi, Kenya and Sudan, the paper examines how rites of passage can serve as mechanisms for social integration or sources of exclusion. Furthermore, it reflects on the role of public policies, human rights frameworks, and ecofeminist movements in advocating for dignified menstruation, free from stigma and in conditions of equity. The study suggests that redefining menarche could contribute to building substantive gender equity and empowering girls in the region.

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