From our member Zornitsa Bazlyankova, Ideas factory (Bulgaria)
The problem
The female body, menstruation and sex continue to be taboo topics in Bulgaria. This makes it extremely difficult to have open conversations about sexual health issues that affect our physical, mental and social well-being.
While both girls and boys receive poor sexual health education (only 10% of schools in the country have dedicated classes according to a statement by the Bulgarian Ombudsman), we’ve found that girls are disproportionately affected. Bulgaria, along with Romania, have the highest rates of teenage pregnancies in the EU.
We want to encourage a healthy curiosity towards sexual health, including on issues such as equality and violence against women.
The book
Vagina Matters is an illustrated book on sexual health for girls, overflowing with educational information and practical tips, relevant for women of all ages. We dissect everything you always wanted to know about the body, puberty, menstruation, sex and much more, but have been afraid to ask.
![](https://europe.ripess.rio20.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2020/10/vagina-matters-book.png)
The squad
The Vagina Matters initiative is powered by Fine Acts, a playground for social change. Our squad is passionate about bringing the first ever illustrated book on sex ed to life. We believe in compassionate and comprehensive sexual education where girls not only learn about the negative issues such as unwanted pregnancies and STI’s but really get to know their body and how it functions.
![](https://europe.ripess.rio20.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2020/10/vagina-matters-team-1024x393.png)