Systematic narrative review on Menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and The Gambia

Abstract

Menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) are critical components of women’s well-being, yet they continue to be overlooked in many low-resource settings. Addressing MHH issues in West Africa is crucial due to their widespread impact on education, health and gender equality, particularly among adolescent girls and women of reproductive age. This systematic narrative review consolidates the existing literature on MHH practices, knowledge, barriers and interventions in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and The Gambia. A comprehensive search was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL Plus and Africa Journals Online) for studies published from 2000 to 2024. The search terms were related to menstruation, hygiene and the four West African countries. Both peer-reviewed articles and grey literature (Google Scholar, policy documents) were included to capture a broad spectrum of findings. Studies were selected based on their relevance to MHH in the target countries and data were extracted and analysed thematically. Of 345 articles identified, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Key findings highlighted the widespread lack of adequate MHM resources, such as sanitary products and functional sanitation facilities. Socio-economic disparities, cultural stigma and insufficient educational resources were major barriers to effective MHM. The review also found a strong link between inadequate MHM and adverse outcomes, including school absenteeism, psychological distress and increased vulnerability to infections. This review underscores the pressing need for comprehensive interventions to address MHH as a public health and human rights issue in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and The Gambia. Ensuring access to sanitary products, improved sanitation facilities and robust educational programs can help empower girls and women to manage menstruation with dignity, thereby improving their health, education and social participation.