Vol. 11, Issue 11, Part D (2025)

Purpose: The study examines the psychological and social repercussions of insufficient “menstrual hygiene management (MHM)” in women and girls from disadvantaged areas. The research examines the impact of insufficient “menstrual hygiene management” practices on mental health, including anxiety, diminished self-esteem, and social isolation, alongside social experiences such as stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. The study examines the influence of intersectional variables, including poverty, caste, cultural norms, and infrastructure limitations, in intensifying these issues.

Methods: A descriptive and exploratory quantitative research methodology was used. Primary data were gathered via a structured questionnaire sent to 400 individuals. Secondary data were obtained from reports by non-governmental organizations, governmental publications, and scholarly studies. The study employed a quantitative approach with purposive sampling to ensure the inclusion of participants from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 26 and Excel, including statistical tests like mean, standard deviation, and regression analysis.

Findings: The findings confirm that poor MHM is robustly linked to heightened psychological distress and social exclusion. The research also shows that cultural taboos and structural discrimination exacerbate stigma and exclusion, with intersectional factors, namely poverty and caste, enhancing their impact. The findings document the intricate intersection between socioeconomic and cultural determinants of menstrual health experience.

Implications: The study needs to recognize MHM as a public health issue and as a matter of gender equality. Public policies and community-based programs should be focused on resource allocation, education, and stigma reduction to enhance the health and social life of women and girls living in disadvantaged communities.