Menstrual Hygiene Management in Kiribati schools – snapshot

Date modified: 16 October 2018

Findings from the study include:

  • Girls in Kiribati lack knowledge about menstruation and reproductive health as they transition into adolescence and adulthood.

  • Poor water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) contributes to girls being unable to manage their menstruation in Kiribati schools.

  • It is often considered taboo for men and boys to talk about menstruation or interact with menstruating girls and women.

  • Strong beliefs about menstruation in Kiribati culture can have a very positive effect on girls. However, some behavioural restrictions have potentially harmful outcomes.

  • Girls in Kiribati schools find it difficult to manage their menstrual pain.

  • Key members of the school leadership community also lack knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene, most notably parents and teachers.

Recommendations for school leaders include:

  • Ensuring the school toilets are safe, secure, private and hygienic. Encouraging teachers to talk about menstruation and female health with students.

  • Acting as role models.

  • Ensuring easy access for girls to sanitary pads and pain relief.

  • Disciplining bad behaviours.

  • Starting a conversation about behavioural restrictions for menstruating girls.

Data and Resources

Rating
Issued 2021-12-21T20:47:50.755071
Modified 2018-10-16
DCAT Type Text
Publisher Name Kiribati Education Improvement Program Phase III