Research on advancing Queer inclusive menstrual dignity
This research presents the findings of a comprehensive survey conducted by the Global Women’s Health, Rights and Empowerment Initiative (GWHREI) to assess menstrual health dignity experiences among marginalized populations in Benue State, Nigeria. The study focuses on three vulnerable groups: queer persons, sex workers, and persons with disabilities, examining the intersection of identity, discrimination, and menstrual health access.
The findings reveal profound disparities in menstrual health access, dignity, and justice, shaped by intersecting discrimination, economic precarity, and systemic exclusion. Key findings include: only 29% of lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) women and 28.6% of sex workers have their menstrual needs adequately met; 57.1% of sex workers report being denied menstrual products or sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) services; and 65.8% of LBQ respondents avoid health facilities during menstruation due to fear of discrimination. The study demonstrates that menstrual health inequity is not merely a health issue but a rights issue deeply
connected to discrimination, autonomy, and justice. The report calls for urgent policy and institutional reforms. Read Full report here
