Effects of Menstrual Hygiene Management on the Self- Esteem of Vulnerable Girls in Coffee Ministry Organization in Kibra Constituency, Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Menstrual hygiene management refers to processes and resources essential for women and girls to effectively manage their menstruation in dignity and safety. However, many girls, especially those in disadvantaged communities, continue to experience obstacles in menstrual hygiene management. The main objective of this study was to investigate effects of menstrual hygiene management on the self-esteem of vulnerable girls in Kibra constituency, in Nairobi County, Kenya. The objectives were to examine effects of menstrual hygiene products on the self-esteem of vulnerable girls; to establish effects of menstrual hygiene management education and awareness on the self-esteem of vulnerable girls; to examine effects of menstrual hygiene management sociocultural factors on the self-esteem of vulnerable girls and; to determine effects of clean sanitation facilities on the self-esteem of vulnerable girls during menstruation in Coffee Ministry in Kibra, Nairobi. Liberal feminism theory and Maslow hierarchy of needs was employed in determining the effects of menstrual hygiene management on self-esteem. Data was collected using both qualitative and quantitative methods through self-administered research questionnaires and interviews. Further, the study respondents consisted of 222 respondents aged 10 to 19, and 15 community workers all affiliated to the Coffee Ministry. A sample size was determined using simple and stratified random sampling that consisted of four strata based on age 10- 12, 13-14, 15-16 and 17-19. A qualitative and quantitative approach was used to provide comprehensive and holistic data, which was analyzed through a descriptive and thematic approach. Collected data of this study were decoded and presented through graphs, tables, and charts using Statistical packages for the social sciences (SPSS). The study established that access to menstrual products boosted girls’ self-esteem. Further, the findings of the study showed that many respondents exposed to menstrual education experienced high self-esteem levels. This study found out that access to clean, private, and secure sanitation facilities resulted in increased confidence and ease in menstrual management. Further, the

study established that sociocultural factors led to shame and stigma. Therefore, multi- stakeholder interventions, that includes comprehensive menstrual education, provision of

free or affordable sanitary products, improved school sanitation infrastructure, and challenging harmful cultural beliefs surrounding menstruation, are recommended.