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Access the evidence you need to make informed decisions. Our Knowledge Hub is a curated library of the latest research, case studies, and practical guides from leading experts in the WASH sector. Deepen your understanding of critical challenges and emerging best practices.

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Latest sync: September 1, 2026, 6:05am

Enabling factors for sustainable menstrual hygiene management practices: a rapid review

Journal Article
This PDF is a rapid review of factors that enable sustainable menstrual hygiene management practices. It highlights the need for affordable and accessible menstrual products, menstrual education, and proper waste management.

Affordable, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly sanitary napkins for rural women, with a focus on degradation study

Journal Article
The article explores the development of biodegradable, eco-friendly sanitary napkins made from banana fiber for rural women in India, addressing both menstrual hygiene needs and environmental concerns. It outlines the use of natural materials like turmeric and neem for antibacterial properties and employs a sustainable production process that is accessible for rural communities. The article also highlights the environmental and social benefits, including reduced waste and improved health, and introduces a framework for assessing environmental impacts at each production stage. This approach promotes menstrual health while providing a low-cost, sustainable alternative to conventional sanitary products.

Evaluating the acceptability of water, sanitation and hygiene interventions, with the case of a portable hygiene intervention (The Spatap) in three Fijian communities, a mixed-methods study.

Journal Article
The article evaluates the acceptability of the Spatap, a portable handwashing device, in three rural Fijian communities with limited water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study assesses community members' views on the Spatap's convenience, water-saving potential, and ease of use. It finds that the device is widely accepted, particularly for its water efficiency and suitability for low-resource settings. The study highlights the importance of considering local water scarcity, environmental conditions, and cultural factors in WASH interventions, recommending adjustments such as local-language instructions and per-person distribution to improve future implementations.

Efficacy of the SuperTowel®: An Alternative Hand-washing Product for Humanitarian Emergencies

Journal Article
The SuperTowel® is a promising alternative to traditional handwashing with soap in emergency situations where access to soap and water is limited. Its efficacy in removing E. coli from pre-contaminated hands, combined with its suitability for use in difficult circumstances, makes it a valuable tool for preventing the transmission of diarrheal pathogens in humanitarian emergencies.

Hand hygiene practices among primary and secondary school students in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review

Journal Article
The review paper on hand hygiene practices among primary and secondary school students in sub-Saharan Africa provides a comprehensive analysis of studies focusing on this topic. The review identified factors influencing hand washing practices among students in SSA, including study population, sample size, research methodology, diversity of respondents, and study sites.

Menstrual Hygiene For Women and Girls in Armed Conflict

The ICRC article sheds light on the critical issue of menstrual hygiene management for women and girls in armed conflict settings, emphasizing the often neglected needs in humanitarian responses.

Girls’ attendance at school after a menstrual hygiene intervention in northern Ethiopia

Journal Article
The study conducted in northern Ethiopia aimed to assess the impact of a menstrual hygiene intervention on girls' school attendance. The intervention included providing education about menstruation through booklets and distributing menstrual hygiene kits to girls in grades 5-12.

Explore Menstrual Hygiene Management

Menstrual hygiene management, highlighting its importance in promoting the health and well-being of women and girls. The resource identifies various challenges and barriers to menstrual hygiene management, including cultural taboos, lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, inadequate sanitation facilities, and limited knowledge and awareness

Period Poverty: Impact of Taboos and Barriers on Information and Resources for Menstrual Health and Hygiene

UNICEF'S U-report poll in the MENA region highlights that 20% of girls lack essential menstrual information, 30% miss school during their period, and 15% face challenges accessing safe toilets and clean water, all of which impact health and education.