Managing the monthly: a mixed methods study on menstrual waste management among adolescent girls from South India

This study assessed the perceptions and practices of menstrual waste management (MWM) and explored the associated facilitators and barriers in schools of Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district, Telangana, India.

A mixed-method approach was adopted. A cross-sectional survey was done among adolescent girls and in-depth interviews among the school teachers from seven schools.

Of the total 394 adolescent girls included in the study, 96.5 % used disposable sanitary pads, with 95 % disposing of them in waste bins at schools, which were incinerated, burnt in open places or buried deep. From the in-depth interviews conducted among the teachers, cultural beliefs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited awareness about reusable menstrual products emerged as significant barriers for safe MWM practices. Non-availability of sanitary workers, electricity fluctuations affecting incineration, and the lack of structured educational materials were some of the challenges that emerged from the in-depth interview. Facilitators for MWM included teacher engagement, availability of dustbins, and support from health workers.

The findings underscore the need for focused interventions, such as sustainable disposal solutions, education on MWM, and community involvement, to improve menstrual waste management among adolescents.