Menstrual stigma and mental health for adolescent girls in South Sudan: A cross-sectional analysis

Ashley Smith, Alexandra Blackwell, Eleonora Mansi, Thomas Hussein, Ambaku Peter Lomena, Cosmas Ayella, Anywar Sam Okot and Kathryn Falb

PLOS Global Public Health, 2026, vol. 6, issue 5, 1-14

Abstract: Menstrual stigma, characterized by negative beliefs, attitudes, and practices surrounding menstruation, often leads to the social exclusion and discrimination of menstruators. The intersection of menstrual stigma and period poverty, which is marked by limited access to menstrual hygiene products and safe sanitation has a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of adolescent girls, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimedto examine the associations between menstrual stigma and mental health (Mood and Feelings Questionnaire) among female adolescents aged 10–20 in primary schools in Panyijar County, South Sudan. Cross-sectional baseline data were analyzed from a school safety evaluation using unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models In unadjusted analyses, knowing whether female classmates had their period was significantly associated with poorer mental health (β = 1.75, p

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pgph00:0004916

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0004916

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