Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) forms a critical component of ensuring access to adequate and equitable sanitation for all, as outlined in SDG 6.2. Despite its importance, little is known about MHM in Malawi, particularly at a household level. Through a household survey of MHM within 2 districts, we evaluated the type of menstrual absorbents used by people who menstruate. Reusable cloths/rags were the most used menstrual absorbent, used by 79.5% of respondents, whilst disposable absorbents, such as tampons and sanitary pads, were used by 18.6% of respondents. Appropriate MHM also incorporates adequate management of MHM materials, including the washing and drying of reusable menstrual absorbents. We evaluated the cleaning of reusable menstrual absorbents; most respondents (90.1%) reported appropriate washing of menstrual absorbents using soap and water, however only 20.3% reported that menstrual absorbents were dried outside in the sun (as is best practise) with most reporting that reusable menstrual absorbents were dried inside their homes. Our findings highlight the need for improved MHM within Malawi, not only in the access and affordability of appropriate menstrual absorbents but also the promotion of appropriate washing and drying of menstrual absorbents.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This research was funded by the Scottish Government under the Scottish Government Climate Justice Fund Water Futures Programme research grant HN-CJF-03 awarded to the University of Strathclyde (R.M. Kalin). Funding was also received from the Scottish Government for the joint PhD studentship of R.G.K Hinton between the James Hutton Institute and the University of Strathclyde. The data collection process was funded by CARE with the financial support of the Government of Canada provided through Global Affairs Canada.

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