With the continued ageing of the global population, the proportion of women who are making the transition to menopause in a stage known as the perimenopause, is increasing. Yet, little is known about the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) needs of perimenopausal women in low-income countries as they go through this time of change, and therefore remain a ‘hidden’ cohort. This paper introduces research which explores these needs, while also documenting the challenges faced in searching for literature on this topic. Some of the sparse literature on experiences of perimenopausal and menopausal women in low-income countries is reviewed. The perimenopause could be the ‘latest taboo’ in WASH, beckoning exploration of the needs of perimenopausal women. It is concluded that a phenomenological review approach can inform how tacit knowledge is explored and captured.
WASH for the Perimenopause in Low-Income Countries: Changing Women, Concealed Knowledge?
January 2014
Additional details
Publisher | Loughborough University |
Themes | Gender, Hygiene, Menopause and perimenopause, Sanitation and health impacts |
Language | English |
Learn more about SLH Research
We use a range of research approaches, which aim to draw attention to urgent knowledge gaps, blind spots and emerging questions, often at a critical point in time, to support policy-makers, practitioners and partners in navigating and responding swiftly.