Gazan women’s struggle for menstrual health and dignity during genocide

During the Israeli genocide against the Gaza Strip, Gazan women faced significant challenges related to menstrual health, exacerbated by a lack of sanitary products, absence of privacy, and water shortages. These conditions were further intensified by immense social pressure, increasing the psychological stress women were already experiencing due to the war. The study used a qualitative approach to explore the menstrual health challenges faced by women during the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip. Thirty-two Gazan refugee females, aged 20 to 60 years (mean age = 32.13, SD = 11.10), were selected from internally displaced Palestinian camps in Rafah during the recent Gaza conflict. Thematic analysis identified six themes: psychological impact of menstrual challenges in Gaza; economic and physical barriers to menstrual hygiene; social stigma and loss of privacy; health consequences of inadequate menstrual hygiene; emotional and physical strain from limited medical services; and socio-cultural aspects of menstrual hygiene in Gaza. The study highlighted the severe challenges Palestinian women faced regarding menstrual health during the Gaza war, compounded by social pressure, lack of privacy, and inadequate sanitary products. It highlights the urgent need for global assistance to Gaza refugees and immediate therapeutic interventions, including psychological and healthcare support.