This study evaluated the impact of integrated menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM) interventions in primary, middle, and high schools across Pali and Bandha clusters in Takhatpur Block, Chhattisgarh. A pre–post intervention design was used, with baseline and postintervention data collected from 20 schools serving adolescent girls aged 10–16 years. The intervention included the distribution of disposable and reusable sanitary pads, the construction of low-cost incinerators, health education workshops, regular menstrual management training, WASH habit development, and community awareness rallies. Present findings demonstrated significant improvements in average student attendance (rose from 45% to 75%), increased enrollment from 170 to 220 (29.4% improvement), and usage rates of sanitary products reached up to 50% in schools. Qualitative indicators improved substantially, with learning levels shifting from low to gradual improvement, mental wellbeing evolving from average to logical and confident, and teacher engagement advancing from basic to competitive and supportive. Community participation also increased from negligible to meaningful engagement. The study outcomes indicate the transformative potential of school-based MHHM programs in reducing stigma, improving health, and supporting girls education. Prospects include replicating this holistic model in other regions to promote gender equity and educational inclusion. However, limitations include reliance on self-reported data, absence of long-term follow-up, and challenges in fully quantifying behavioral change. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs and explore culturally sensitive strategies to ensure sustainable, scalable improvements in menstrual health management.
Rashmi Singh Dhurve (Fri,) studied this question.