Do Pads Keep Girls in School?

Studies show that yes, they do.

A Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) study in Kenya in 2007 showed over two months, sanitary pad provision coupled with reproductive health education reduced absenteeism from 4.9 days to 1.2 days per month as compared to the control group.

It further noted,

whereas 90.3% of the girls from Nairobi did not miss any school following the puberty education sessions and receiving sanitary pads, only 67.6% of girls from Garissa did not miss any school following the interventions. This is because the survey revealed that circumcised girls experience longer and more painful periods than uncircumsized ones, contributing to absenteeism despite the interventions.” As well, class participation was enhanced significantly in the group receiving interventions, with girls shown to be “less shy and withdrawn.”

The study strongly recommended the government provide free sanitary pads to school girls.

Another study in Ghana was undertaken by the Said Business School of Oxford. It confirmed that post-pubescent girls were missing as many as five days of school per month. With intervention of pads and education on menstrual management and hygiene, the rate of absenteeism was cut by slightly more than half, from about 21% of school days to about 9%. In the village where education only was provided, there was also a reduction in absenteeism, but the effect was delayed.

The study notes:

The girls also reported an improved ability to concentrate in school, higher confidence levels, and increased participation in a range of everyday activities while menstruating. Negative experiences relating to soiling and embarrassment declined, as did feelings of shame and isolation, and measures of well-being improved.

The study points to a number of important issues for policy makers and NGOs in developing countries, not least how to fund and implement a programme of sanitary product provision, and how to dispose of the pads with minimal environmental impact particularly in rural areas.

To summarize: The Benefits of providing sanitary pads to girls

• Increased attendance during menses
• More frequent participation in class discussions
• Increased participation in physical activities
• Enhanced personal grooming
• Improved self-confidence
• Increased health from using hygienic products

Result: Girls attend, compete, matriculate

The 110 girls we serve in 5 schools in Kibera confirm. Read some of their blogs about the impact of sanitary pad provision in their lives:

• We feel loved
• Free to play
• Thank you ZanaA
• Positive Changes
• Positive Changes in Our Lives