An Assessment of Menstrual Health Management Practices and School Attendance Among Adolescent Girls in Kano State

Menstrual health management (MHM) is increasingly recognised as a significant determinant of girls' school attendance and educational continuity, yet it remains poorly addressed in school infrastructure and policy frameworks across Northern Nigeria. This study assesses menstrual health management practices and their relationship with school attendance among adolescent girls in public secondary schools in Kano State. A quantitative survey design was used, with 280 female students from eight schools in Kano Municipal and Ungogo Local Government Areas completing structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Findings indicate that 62% of respondents have missed school at least once due to menstruation, with inadequate sanitary facilities, lack of affordable sanitary products, and social stigma cited as the primary reasons. Most girls rely on improvised materials, and fewer than 20% have access to a private, functional toilet in their school. Knowledge of menstrual hygiene is limited, with most girls receiving information from peers rather than qualified health or education personnel. The study recommends construction of girl-friendly sanitation facilities in all public schools, government provision of subsidised sanitary products, and integration of menstrual health education into the school curriculum. These findings contribute to the evidence base for menstrual health policy advocacy in North West Nigeria. Keywords: menstrual health management, school attendance, adolescent girls, Kano State, gender