Period poverty in rural Uganda; an exploration of the challenges and the need for intervention

Abstract

Abstract Background Period poverty refers to a lack of access to safe means of managing menstruation. It affects the education, health and dignity of millions of women and girls globally. This study aims to identify the barriers facing menstruating girls in rural Uganda, investigate the effects of period poverty in this demographic and assess the need to implement a programme to tackle challenges identified. Methods A qualitative study was undertaken in a community setting. 42 Participants were selected in Bududa, Uganda using convenience sampling. School-age girls supported by The Shelo Foundation (charity no.1155142) who had begun menstruating and adults in positions of responsibility in the community were interviewed to gain a cross sectional understanding of the questions posed. Data was collected prospectively in semi-structured interviews over a four-week period in July 2013. Questions focused on access to essential hygiene materials, challenges faced when menstruating (with a focus on accessing education) and possible solutions to the barriers reported. Interview transcripts were analysed; the common concepts were identified, and conclusions drawn from the results. Results Inability to access sanitation products, due to financial poverty and local availability, was the main challenge highlighted throughout the analysis of the interview transcripts. The other common themes included lack of suitable hygiene facilities, absence of education on menstruation and the vulnerability of menstruating girls to abuse and stigma. Analysis found that on average girls were missing three days of school a month due to their periods, equalling 18% of the academic year. Conclusions Period poverty disadvantages school-aged females in Bududa, Uganda. Financial poverty, lack of education and stigma contribute to period poverty. An intervention programme including accessible sanitation products and education is recommended to tackle this gender inequality for girls in this population. Key messages A lack of sanitation products, subpar education and stigma contribute to period poverty in Uganda and negatively impact female education with menstruating students missing up to 18% of a school year. An intervention programme incorporating access to sanitation products alongside education is recommended to tackle period poverty in this population and improve women’s health and female education.