RUKUNGIRI – Poor menstrual hygiene management is forcing many schoolgirls in Rukungiri District to miss classes and, in some cases, abandon their education altogether, a new study has revealed.

The study, conducted among girls in government-aided primary schools in the district, found that inadequate access to sanitary products, poor sanitation facilities, and limited menstrual health education are major barriers to girls' school attendance.

Researchers found that a significant number of girls miss several days of school each month during their menstrual periods. Many cited fear of staining their uniforms, lack of access to sanitary pads, and inadequate privacy at school as reasons for staying home.

According to the findings, some girls resort to using improvised materials such as old cloth, tissue paper, or other absorbent materials because commercial sanitary pads are unaffordable or unavailable. The situation is worsened by the lack of water, soap, and proper disposal facilities in many school toilets.

Education and health experts warn that the challenge is not only affecting academic performance but also increasing the risk of school dropout among adolescent girls.

“Menstrual health remains a critical but often overlooked factor affecting girls’ education,” the researchers noted, calling for greater investment in menstrual hygiene management programmes in schools.

The study recommends the provision of affordable sanitary products, improved sanitation facilities, and comprehensive menstrual health education for both learners and teachers. It also calls for efforts to tackle stigma and misinformation surrounding menstruation.

Advocates say addressing period poverty is essential to ensuring that girls remain in school and have equal opportunities to complete their education.

The findings add to growing evidence from across Uganda showing that inadequate menstrual hygiene management continues to hinder girls’ educational attainment, particularly in rural and low-income communities.

Stakeholders are now urging government, development partners, and communities to prioritise menstrual health interventions as part of broader efforts to improve girls’ education and gender equality.