Menstrual health (MH) is a human rights issue and integral to women’s health and wellbeing, yet it remains a challenge for many, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

In Zimbabwe, there is a high unmet need for MH products and support for women, including care for menstrual pain and disorders. If we are to reduce gendered hygiene-related inequalities and related larger health, social and economic impacts, it is important to understand and address the MH-related challenges women face daily.

This research works across three provinces in Zimbabwe (Harare, Mashonal and East Bulawayo), using an innovative participatory action research approach to develop a setting-specific and evidence-based MH resource and training package (an MH Toolkit). This package will improve MH-seeking behaviours, quality of care and the overall wellbeing and quality of life for women in Zimbabwe. The research has four objectives:

1. To investigate the lived experiences of women in Zimbabwe in relation to hygiene and MH.
2. To synthesise findings into an entertaining and educational MH film that brings attention and understanding to the often stigmatised and mystified experiences of menstruation and MH.
3. To understand the gaps in MH-related knowledge and healthcare-seeking behaviour and provision.
4. To use these findings to co-develop, pilot, and evaluate a comprehensive “Menstrual Health Toolkit” for women and their healthcare providers.

The project is innovative in focusing on women and menstruation across the life-course and on the co-creation of a Menstrual Health Toolkit with women, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders in rural and urban communities across Zimbabwe. It is also one of the first rigorous research projects on how to practically improve MH and MH-related awareness and care in Southern Africa.