Handwashing for menstrual hygiene management among primary schoolgirls in rural western Kenya

摘要: Good hand hygiene contributes to the health and educational attainment of schoolchildren. Poor menstrual management (MHM) is recognized impact on girls’ health, education, wellbeing dignity, particularly in low-income countries. Identifying practical, affordable, comfortable products improve MHM needed. One potential cost-effective product cup; however, provision this insertable product, schools countries with challenging water, sanitation (WASH) conditions, increases need for assurance good hygiene. This paper uses data from a randomized controlled feasibility study evaluating acceptability, use safety provided schoolgirls rural western Kenya. Here, we explore handwashing practices school when using cups, sanitary pads or traditional items, examining availability WASH reported frequency handwashing. Data generated interviews adults, private surveys, narratives focus group discussions, observational surveys are explored. Reported presence was higher than that observed during random spot-checks. Overall, 10 per cent girls never washed before, 7 after, emptying changing their item at school. Girls cup were twice as likely wash prior emptying, compared other items. Handwashing among items low, despite same training across groups comparable presence. highlight sustained mechanisms support schoolgirls’ MHM.