GEOGRAPHICAL DISPARITIES IN MENSTRUAL HYGIENE MANAGEMENT AMONG YOUNG GIRLS AND ADOLESCENTS AGED 10-24 IN THE HEALTH DISTRICTS OF BOUAKE, KORHOGO AND TIEBISSOU (COTE D'IVOIRE)

Kassoum KONE, NESTLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPPEMENT CENTER
Julius Paterne Yao, Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d'Economie Appliquée

The global issue of inadequate menstrual management, particularly affecting 500 million women and girls, is underscored by the lack of proper sanitary facilities, as reported by the World Bank in 2015. Despite being a natural and universal phenomenon, menstruation remains a taboo subject, especially in Africa. Poor menstrual hygiene is linked to various health issues, including urinary and reproductive infections. This study aims to identify explanatory factors, based on residence, contributing to suboptimal menstrual hygiene among young girls and adolescents in health districts of Bouaké, Korhogo, and Tiébissou in Côte d'Ivoire. Unlike previous descriptive analyses done in somes african' countries, this research seeks to provide in-depth insights, aiming to enhance understanding and guide policymakers in refining strategies to improve the health of young girls and adolescents. The study discusses methodology, presents analysis results, and concludes with recommendations to address the complex issue of menstrual hygiene.