Menstrual Health and Endometriosis: An Urgent Issue in Africa

Menstrual health in Africa is often neglected due to stigma, poor access to products, sanitation, and education, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. Common menstrual disorders like dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia are frequently undiagnosed. Endometriosis, affecting 5–10% of reproductive-age women, remains underdiagnosed due to healthcare gaps and limited research. Menstrual health inequities are deeply rooted in sociocultural barriers, misinformation, and restricted access to care. The absence of comprehensive menstrual health education in schools and communities fosters stigma and leaves many individuals unprepared to manage their health. In rural and resource-constrained settings, poor sanitation and limited healthcare exacerbate these issues, contributing to school and workplace absenteeism. The economic burden of menstrual health conditions, including endometriosis, further strains affected individuals and their families due to high healthcare costs and lost income. Transgender and non-binary individuals face additional challenges, including systemic healthcare barriers, stigma, and inadequate clinical recognition of their menstrual health needs. A lack of research on their experiences leads to significant gaps in care, further marginalising an already vulnerable population. To address these challenges, a multifaceted approach is required. Improved clinical guidelines, provider training, and culturally sensitive policies are necessary to enhance diagnosis and treatment. Grassroots awareness campaigns can dismantle stigma and improve access to menstrual health education. Enhancing healthcare infrastructure, integrating menstrual health into primary care, and expanding research on menstrual disorders and endometriosis are vital for achieving equity in Africa.Addressing menstrual health inequities and endometriosis in Africa requires urgent, integrated interventions across health, education, and social systems. By prioritising early detection, accessible care, and education, we can mitigate the long-term impacts of these conditions and improve the quality of life for all affected individuals. Sustainable solutions demand collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, educators, researchers, and communities to foster inclusive, evidence-based approaches to menstrual health.