2012 Kitgum menstrual cup pilot study

WoMena’s first official menstrual cup pilot study was done in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) with support from Danish Red Cross Youth (DRCY) in Kitgum, Uganda.  The study objectives were to assess young girls and women’s acceptability, suitability and hygienic safety of using menstrual cups in Uganda, when introducing menstrual cups through the URCS Life Planning Skills (LPS) project framework. 31 study participants (18-32 yrs) were given a menstrual cup and trained in its correct use and cleaning. At baseline and follow-up (after 3-5 months) gynecological check ups, a questionnaire survey, interviews and focus group discussions were conducted. The study concluded that menstrual cups appear to be acceptable, practical and hygienically safe to use and can contribute to improve the quality of life for girls and women in similar settings. In addition, money saved can be used for e.g. soap for improved menstrual hygiene.