Challenges and Solutions in Menstrual Hygiene Management in Rural Africa

Menstrual hygiene is a crucial aspect of adolescent health, especially in rural African schools facing various challenges. A scoping review was conducted to explore factors affecting menstrual hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices among adolescent girls in this context. The review revealed that many girls lack comprehensive knowledge about menstruation due to unreliable sources of information and unpreparedness for menarche. Sociocultural and religious influences also shape their menstrual hygiene practices. Limited resources, including access to menstrual hygiene products and inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in rural schools, significantly impact girls’ school attendance, academic performance, and overall quality of life.

Historically, menstrual hygiene has been overlooked in public health agendas, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Menstrual hygiene management involves various methods and products to address menstrual challenges effectively. Factors such as cultural taboos, socioeconomic status, and education influence menstrual hygiene practices globally. In South Asia and other regions, initiatives have been implemented to improve menstrual health, including subsidized sanitary pad programs and menstrual education in schools. The World Health Organization and UNICEF emphasize the importance of effective menstrual hygiene management for gender equity and public health, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals.

Despite global efforts, challenges persist in Sub-Saharan Africa, where cultural taboos and inadequate WASH infrastructure hinder menstrual management. In South Africa, disparities in menstrual health remain, especially in rural provinces like Limpopo and the Eastern Cape. Schools in these areas lack proper facilities and cultural stigma limits open discussions about menstruation. The lack of menstrual hygiene education and resources, combined with poverty and cultural beliefs, contribute to poor menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls in rural schools.

To address these challenges, targeted interventions are needed to improve access to sanitary products, enhance WASH infrastructure, and provide comprehensive menstrual health education in rural African schools. Multi-sectoral approaches are essential to promote gender equality, improve health outcomes, and support academic success for adolescent girls. Future research should focus on context-specific interventions and policy implementation to address the unique challenges faced by girls in rural African settings. By prioritizing menstrual hygiene as a public health and education issue, governments can ensure a supportive environment for adolescent girls to manage their menstrual health effectively.