Breaking taboos, Building trust

In January, the SFE team in Sékong launched a new activity as part of its project by organizing a three-day training session in collaboration with the association Eau Lao Solidarity.

This training covered key topics such as puberty, hygiene, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), gender-based violence, and teenage pregnancy.

A group of 20 trainers—including representatives from the departments of education and health, as well as village health volunteers—took part in the training. All of them gained valuable knowledge to share with partner villages.

In February, these trainers put their learning into practice by leading sessions in seven villages. Young women and men were educated on important subjects such as the menstrual cycle (normal and abnormal), proper use of hygiene products during menstruation, and family planning.

To support this awareness campaign, 222 washable sanitary pads—produced by the Women’s Union during the training—were distributed to the participants. These reusable products will help them maintain their health and dignity in daily life.

Menstrual health remains a sensitive topic in many rural communities. Shame and taboos often make discussion difficult. However, despite some initial discomfort, young people gradually engaged in the conversations—demonstrating that information and awareness are powerful tools for opening up dialogue.