ArticleWomen's health (London, England)
Perspectives on prior preparation for menstrual experience from women and female health workers in Malawi.
Article in Women's health (London, England). The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers.
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2 citing papers in PubMed.
- Management of Menstrual Hygiene in Promoting Education Among Adolescent Girls in Enqucwini Education Zone in Mzimba District.Public health challenges · 2026Article
- Menstrual health hygiene, awareness, myths, and health-seeking behaviors among women: A qualitative study from a peri-urban settlement of Islamabad, Pakistan.Journal of public health research · 2025Article
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8 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundWhile studies have explored various aspects of menstruation, an evident gap remains in the literature concerning the perspectives of young women and female health workers. By shedding light on this unexplored terrain, the study provides novel insights that can inform targeted interventions and foster a more inclusive understanding of menstrual health. As such, this investigation stands at the forefront of academic endeavour in menstrual health research, making an original and valuable impact in the field.
objectivesThe objective of this study was to explore the experiences of reproductive-aged women during menstruation in Malawi. The specific objectives were to examine the experiences of reproductive-age women related to menstrual preparation, identify factors influencing the choice of menstrual products for women in Malawi, and identify the public health implications of menstrual products.
designThis cross-sectional study employed qualitative research methods to explore the acceptance and implementation of menstrual cups as a feminine hygienic product for women in Malawi.
methodsThe study involved focus group discussions and interviews with reproductive-age women aged 18-54 years and health providers at Bwaila and Mitundu family clinics and Lighthouse HIV management centres. Thematic content analysis was performed using NVivo 12. Ethical approval was obtained from the College of Medicine Research and Ethics Committee (P.08/21/3379).
resultsEducation on menstruation is provided as early as 10 years before menarche by sisters, friends, mothers, aunties and grandmothers. Parents remain silent on menstrual issues. Commonly used menstrual products include disposable pads, cloths, reusable pads and cotton wool. While a few mentioned using tampons, pieces of blankets and flex foam, the majority demonstrated widespread ignorance about menstrual cups. Mentors or counsellors, affordability, accessibility, comfort and disposal issues influence women's choice of products being used.
conclusionParents need to break the silence on menstrual issues. Messages on menstruation and menstrual products are explicit in forming female adolescents what to expect with menarche, how to manage menses including health-related impacts, and ways of mitigating menses-related misconceptions, discrimination and stigma, and could be incorporated into the primary school curriculum. Safe menstrual products are accessible free of charge or at a subsidised cost.
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