Menstrual Hygiene Management in Secondary schools in Tanzania
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Date
2014
Journal Title
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Volume Title
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Abstract
Menstrual hygiene management was studied in 12 secondary schools of Kinondoni and Bagamoyo district in Tanzania. The schools were
selected by cluster sampling technique among public and private schools. Data were collected through questionnaire, Focus Group
Discussion (FGD), semi-structured interviews and guide checklist for observation. A total of 149 girls participated in the survey and out
of them, 84 participated in the FGD. A total of 23 head/deputy head of schools and matrons participated in semi-structured in-depth
interview. The information sought included menstrual hygiene management (MHM) facilities, practices and education. The results
indicate that all surveyed schools offered some sort of MHM education to girls and 3 schools out of 9 co-education schools involved in
the study, provide some education about MHM to boys. A large majority of girls still need more information on MHM and prefer this
information be provided at school. Lack of soap, hand wash facilities, privacy in toilet and free pads to attend emergency needs were
identified as main problems. A supportive environment for MHM has to be provided in schools and to achieve this; instruction about
MHM should be incorporated into compulsory health education in both primary and secondary schools curricula with separate sessions
for girls and boys. Moreover, there is an urgent need for girl’s friendly toilet designs and appropriately final disposal facilities for
menstrual products in schools. The efforts do not always mean large investments in infrastructure but in many instances, it suffices with
just small investment.
Description
Keywords
Menstrual hygiene management, Secondary schools, Developing countries
Citation
Guya, E., Mayo, A.W. and Kimwaga, R., 2014. Menstrual Hygiene Management in Secondary schools in Tanzania. International Journal of Science and Technology, 3(1), pp.27-39.