In her personal narrative, Lois Ogunniyi shares her menstrual evolution as a Nigerian girl, reflecting on her transition from traditional pads to modern menstrual products like tampons, cups, and discs. Like many girls in Nigeria, Lois initially relied on sanitary pads during her formative years, particularly favoring Always Ultra pads during her time in secondary school. She vividly recalls the challenges of leaks, discomfort, and the constant vigilance against stains, a common experience for many navigating puberty.

Attending a boarding school, Lois often found herself sharing her pads with friends in need, a gesture of sisterhood that occasionally left her in desperate situations without a pad. She recounts a particularly distressing incident where she had to resort to using makeshift alternatives like toilet tissue and cloth, an uncomfortable episode that underscored the importance of reliable menstrual products.

Despite the myths and taboos surrounding menstrual hygiene perpetuated by African cultural beliefs, Lois harbored a curiosity to explore beyond traditional pads. This curiosity led her to discover tampons while in university, drawn to their comfort and convenience despite their higher cost. Transitioning to tampons marked a significant shift for Lois, liberating her from the bulkiness and anxiety associated with pads.

As Lois delved further into her menstrual journey, she eventually embraced eco-friendly alternatives such as menstrual cups and discs. Initially hesitant due to concerns about safety and comfort, she overcame her reservations through research and experimentation. The menstrual cup, though challenging to insert initially, proved to be a comfortable and natural choice once mastered. Subsequently, the menstrual disc emerged as her preferred option for its ease of use and cost-effectiveness, eliminating the need for monthly pad purchases.

Through her experiences with various menstrual products, Lois emphasizes the importance of embracing change and finding what works best for individual comfort and hygiene needs. While acknowledging that leaks can still occur with any product, she underscores the significance of regular checks and finding the right fit for one’s body. For Lois, the transition from pads to discs signifies a personal evolution in menstrual care, reflecting her growth and adaptability in navigating womanhood.