| dc.description.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. | en_US |
