Stigma of staining? Negotiating menstrual taboos amongst young women in Kenya

Biologically most women menstruate and yet various conceptions of menstrual blood as polluting and dangerous have circumscribed their behaviour in oppressive ways. Whilst there is vast literature on the origins, meanings and restrictions put in place by perceiving menstruation in this light, less is appreciated about how stigmatisation of women's bodies is heightened in contexts of economic vulnerability. Using interviews, focus group discussions and participant diaries with secondary school-aged young women in Oyugis, Kenya, we analyse the everyday experiences and challenges that they face in managing their menses. Through exploring restrictions to their mobilities and spatial practices, we posit the need to consider why and how gender hierarchies exist and are perpetuated. Menstruation is shrouded in secrecy and silence and, coupled with lack of access to sanitary towels, hinders educational prospects and life chances. We bring this issue to the fore to argue for a multi-pronged approach that recognises how gender and other material inequities intersect with socio-cultural geographies. This is paramount if young women, and future generations of youth, are to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.