Menstrual Pain Management, School Absenteeism and Educational Performance Among Adolescent Students: Cross-Sectional
Prossy Namirembe1, Alice Nassanga1, Christopher Baleke1
1MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.
BJOG : an International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|November 25, 2025
Summary
Menstrual pain significantly increases school absenteeism among Ugandan adolescents. Effective pain management is crucial for improving school attendance and educational outcomes in this population.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Public Health
- Pain Management
Background:
- Menstrual pain is a common issue affecting adolescent girls.
- Pain management strategies are often underutilized.
- The impact of menstrual pain on education requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe menstrual pain and its management among Ugandan adolescents.
- To investigate the association between pain relief and school absenteeism.
- To explore the link between menstrual pain and educational performance.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in 60 Ugandan secondary schools.
- Quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews were employed.
- Data were analyzed using thematic framework and regression analyses.
Main Results:
- 83% of adolescents reported menstrual pain, with those in pain missing more school days (2.1 vs. 1.4 days/month).
- Pain management strategies were used by 71.3% of those with pain.
- Lack of pain relief was associated with increased school absenteeism.
Conclusions:
- Menstrual pain significantly contributes to school absenteeism in Ugandan adolescents.
- There is a critical need to enhance the adoption of effective pain relief strategies in schools.
- Improving pain management can positively impact educational attainment.
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