VoxTalks Economics
S8 Ep15: Ending period stigma in schools
Mar 5, 2025
In this discussion, Karen Macours, an economist at the Paris School of Economics, sheds light on the detrimental effects of menstrual stigma on schoolgirls in Madagascar. She reveals how a groundbreaking program tackled this issue by encouraging open conversations about periods and empowering young girl leaders. The results showed a significant boost in mental health and graduation rates among participants. Macours emphasizes the importance of creating supportive school environments to enhance educational success and reduce anxiety for female students.
15:38
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Quick takeaways
- Addressing menstrual stigma through open discussions and training of peer leaders significantly improves mental health and educational outcomes for girls.
- Implementing supportive hygiene education and infrastructure in schools fosters a collaborative environment that enhances students' learning experiences and reduces anxiety.
Deep dives
Understanding Menstrual Stigma
Menstrual stigma refers to the societal norms and attitudes that discourage open discussion about menstruation, leading to feelings of shame and exclusion for girls and women. This stigma can manifest in various ways, such as bullying in schools or feeling unable to communicate about menstrual issues even within families. In many communities, particularly in poorer regions like rural Madagascar, the taboo surrounding menstruation prevents girls from understanding their own bodies and leads to significant mental strain. The stigma not only hinders their academic performance but also diminishes their overall well-being, making it crucial to address this issue.
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