Toward a Menstrual-friendly School Environment: A Convergent Parallel Mixed Method Study

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is essential for adolescent girls to manage menstruation safely and with dignity. However, inadequate facilities and social stigma lead to school absenteeism and educational disadvantages. This study evaluates MHM facilities in schools and explores teachers' perspectives on challenges and solutions in rural and peri-urban Raebareli, India.

A convergent parallel design in mixed method study was conducted in four government schools (two rural, two peri-urban) in the Rahi block, Raebareli. A facility assessment checklist, based on India's 2015 MHM guidelines, evaluated toilets, handwashing stations, pad disposal systems, and privacy measures. Teachers' perspectives were explored through focus group discussions with teachers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inductive thematic analysis. The mixing of the data was at the level of result presentation.

Only 50% of schools had adequate girls' toilets, 25% had functional handwashing facilities, and one school had an incinerator for pad disposal. Teachers highlighted inadequate infrastructure, social stigma, lack of policies, and limited training as major barriers. They emphasized the need for awareness programs, improved facilities, administrative support, and a designated nodal teacher for MHM.

MHM facilities remain inadequate. Strengthening infrastructure, increasing government support, appointing nodal teachers, and implementing awareness programs are essential to fostering a menstrual-friendly school environment, ultimately improving attendance and educational outcomes for adolescent girls.