Anja Benshaul-Tolonen, Garazi Zulaika, Elizabeth Nyothach, Clifford Oduor, Linda Mason, David Obor, Kelly T. Alexander, Penelope A. Phillips-Howard
Abstract:
Can sanitary products improve schoolgirls’ psychosocial well-being and school attendance? We evaluate a simple, disposable product (sanitary pads), and a complex, albeit, economically and environmentally sustainable product (menstrual cup), and compare with business as usual in a randomized pilot program across primary schools in Western Kenya. We estimate positive effects on physical and educational functioning, with stronger and more statistically precise effects early in the intervention period. Qualitative narratives are consistent with the estimated improvements in well-being. The improvements in psychosocial well-being tapered off in the sanitary pads arm, as the benefit stream of disposable products ceased. We found few statistically precise reductions in absenteeism in either treatment arm. The pilot program shows potential for psychosocial well-being improvements from menstrual hygiene interventions in schools.
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