Charlotte’s Clinic has the primary aim of improving Menstrual Health Management. Our research has shown that this is a crisis area, particularly in Africa, and it is deepening poverty, negatively affecting the health of women, and destructive to the education of young girls in school. We are combating this crisis by providing information, advice, and raising awareness about issues relating to women, particularly, but not limited to, menstrual hygiene and also making provisions for needed materials like Sanitary towels. Charlotte’s clinic is committed to furthering research in this area in order to influence policy in Nigeria and ensure that there is a permanent change. We have identified three (3) key areas that are integral to our mission: Education, Poverty Relief and Sickness Prevention. Education 1 in 10 girls miss school during their menstrual cycle (Sub-Saharan Africa). Some estimate that 20% of the academic year is missed. Many end up missing exams and dropping out. Because of the stigma attached to the menstrual cycle, and inadequate materials available to girls, their rights to education are being violated. Because of the attitude to menstrual cycles, many girls start their periods with a lack of information and preparation. We plan to educate communities on the nature of menstrual cycles and remove the stigma attached to periods. We are also working towards ensuring that all girls have access to sanitary pads so that they do not have to miss school because of not having “leak-proof” materials, and educating them on how these items are used, changed and disposed of. Poverty Relief Many of those that we are reaching out to live below the poverty line, and buying sanitary towels is just not an option. With the average packet of sanitary towels costing around 400 Naira, for many, buying what is now seen as a luxury is just out of the question. Sickness Prevention Rags Paper Socks Tissue Leaves/Plants These are some of the materials that are being used by women in place of sanitary pads. These bad practices are dirty, unhygienic and often harsh on the skin. Bad odours are very common, and infections are rampant. This means that there is a lot of irritation and discomfort suffered, and often times, infections can migrate, affecting fallopian tubes and even ovaries. This can be prevented if we provide sanitary towels and educate women on how these are used. Not only does this initiative better the poverty crisis, but also aids in the hygiene and sanitation crisis. It will help socially as this issue needs to stop being a secret and a taboo. Lets help educate and free our women of this “shame”.