WHO/UNICEF: new report on menstrual health and hygiene in schools

A new global report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reveals major gaps in menstrual health and hygiene in schools around the world.

Produced by the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) for Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene, Progress on drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene in schools 2000-2023: special focus on menstrual health, finds that menstrual health and hygiene needs are being overlooked due to limited access to information, education, products and services, as well as inadequate facilities and inequalities.

• Worldwide, only 2 out of 5 schools (39%) provide menstrual health education.
• Less than 1 in 3 schools (31%) globally have bins for menstrual waste in girls’ toilets. This drops to 1 in 5 schools in Least Developed Countries (17%), and only 1 in 10 schools (or 11%) in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Menstrual products are not always readily available, with many unable to afford them. In sub-Saharan Africa, for example, only 1 in 8 schools (12%) provide menstrual materials for free or for purchase.

The report highlights the urgent need for global action so that girls can manage menstruation with dignity, safety, and confidence.

For more information and to explore the report, click here.