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Every month, millions of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) experience stress and anxiety due to poor menstrual hygiene.

Menstrual health is essential for adolescent girls’ well-being but remains a challenge in low- and middle-income countries like Ghana. Poor menstrual hygiene (PMH) stems from inadequate access to basic necessities such as clean water and dignified environments. Additionally, societal taboos and stigma exacerbate the issue, increasing the risk of mental health disorders, including depression. How PMH contributes to depression remains unclear, and this study aims to improve our understanding of the issue.

This research investigates the link between menstrual health needs and psychological distress among adolescent girls in Ghana. Data was gathered from five high schools in the Volta region of Ghana, assessing menstrual health needs and mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Findings indicate that schoolgirls face moderate levels of unmet menstrual needs, with school environments presenting greater challenges than home. Many girls reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, with unmet menstrual needs strongly linked to higher psychological distress.

To deepen this understanding, interviews were conducted with female adolescents, parents, teachers, and community leaders in rural and semi-rural areas in Ghana. These insights informed the development and refinement of an existing questionnaire to better examine the connection between PMH and depression among high-school adolescents. This work simultaneously advances the tools available to identify and manage menstruation-related depression while reinforcing the case for improved menstrual health policies and interventions.

This project has made significant progress in research and capacity building. So far, three manuscripts have been published, three have been submitted for peer review in academic journals, and three are under development and internal review. These contributions strengthen the evidence base for menstrual health and its impact on adolescent well-being.

Beyond research outputs, the project prioritises capacity building. Two master’s students have successfully graduated with support from this project, while three more students are currently being supported and are expected to complete their programs by December 2025. This investment in education helps build a stronger foundation for future research and advocacy. The fellow continues active collaboration with community members, with a planned dissemination of findings. Efforts to secure further funding and expand the project’s reach are ongoing, with several proposals already submitted for additional support.