Preprint Review Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

# Cost Implications of Menstrual Hygiene Management in Nigeria and Its Associated Impacts

Version 1 : Received: 13 May 2021 / Approved: 14 May 2021 / Online: 14 May 2021 (15:44:59 CEST)
Version 2 : Received: 20 September 2021 / Approved: 20 September 2021 / Online: 20 September 2021 (10:37:08 CEST)

How to cite: Ajari, E.; Abass, T.; Ilesanmi, E.; Adebisi, Y. Cost Implications of Menstrual Hygiene Management in Nigeria and Its Associated Impacts. Preprints 2021, 2021050349 (doi: 10.20944/preprints202105.0349.v1). Ajari, E.; Abass, T.; Ilesanmi, E.; Adebisi, Y. Cost Implications of Menstrual Hygiene Management in Nigeria and Its Associated Impacts. Preprints 2021, 2021050349 (doi: 10.20944/preprints202105.0349.v1).

## Abstract

There has been a steady rise in the recognition of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) as a pressing public health issue due to several advocacy campaigns against its high cost. However, not much of such recognition has been given to it outside the non-profit sector in Nigeria. This is paradoxical considering that most menstruators in Nigeria cannot afford MHM whose cost is considered high even in developed countries. We estimated that the average lifetime cost of MHM in Nigeria is $1,120 per menstruator and$113.57 billion for the entire menstruating population. Although this cost is relatively lower than in other countries, Nigeria’s low income level explains why there is a high prevalence of period poverty among menstruators in Nigeria. This paper discusses the intersected impacts of the cost of MHM and period poverty on the average Nigerian menstruator, his/her family, the economy, the environment and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To alleviate the discussed negative effects, we suggested, as a key recommendation, the national shift from the use of disposable MHM products to that of reusable ones.

## Keywords

Menstrual Hygiene Management; Menstrual pads; Menstruation; Nigeria; Period poverty; Sustainable Development Goals

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