RGHI Fellow

About Me

I am a researcher passionate about improving adolescent health, particularly menstrual health. My work focuses on breaking the stigma around menstruation and ensuring young people have access to the right information and support. My goal is to create a world where menstrual health is openly discussed and properly managed.

I am inspired by the resilience of adolescents who navigate puberty with limited guidance and support. Witnessing how inadequate menstrual health education affects their well-being drives me to find solutions through research and advocacy. My journey into this field is shaped by both academic training and personal experiences, giving me a deep understanding of the real challenges young people face and how we can make meaningful improvements.

Looking ahead, I aim to ensure my research informs policies and programs that equip young people with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their health confidently. Collaborating with various stakeholders will be essential in driving lasting change. Outside of my work, I cherish time with my husband and daughter, who remind me of the importance of balance, care, and meaningful connections.

Research Updates

Menstrual health is crucial for adolescent girls’ well-being but remains a challenge in low- and middle-income countries like Ghana. Poor menstrual hygiene affects physical health, education, and mental well-being. My recent research examined the link between menstrual health needs and psychological distress among adolescent girls in Ghana. Data was collected from five high schools in the Volta region, focusing on menstrual health needs and mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and stress.

Findings revealed that schoolgirls experience moderate levels of unmet menstrual health needs, with school environments posing greater challenges than home. Many girls reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, with unmet menstrual needs linked to higher psychological distress. This research is currently being developed for publication in an open-access journal and aims to contribute to enhancing school environments for improved menstrual health outcomes.

Key Milestones

This project has made significant strides in both research and capacity building:

• Three manuscripts have been published, with three more submitted for peer review and another three under internal review.
• The research has supported two master’s students who have successfully graduated, with three more expected to complete their programs by December 2025.
• Community engagement remains a priority, with findings set for dissemination to key stakeholders.
• Efforts are ongoing to secure additional funding and expand the project’s impact, with multiple proposals submitted for further support.

Key Research Interests

• Menstrual health and hygiene
• Adolescent sexual and reproductive health
• Gender equity and socioeconomic determinants of health
• Qualitative health research