Menstrual Stigma, Hygiene, and Human Capital: Experimental Evidence from India

Menstruation-related stigma likely represents a major barrier to girls' human capital development across South Asia. A randomized evaluation in Madagascar demonstrated that a school-based menstrual health intervention improved learning by 0.15 SD. This pilot adapts and tests this intervention for India. Research Question: Can a school-based menstrual health intervention be effectively adapted to reduce stigma and improve girls' learning in rural India? Intervention: Working with Project Baala, an Indian social enterprise experienced in menstrual health programming, we will adapt their "Growing Up Smart" program incorporating evidence-based components from Madagascar. The intervention includes: (1) distribution of reusable sanitary pads; (2) teacher training and sensitization sessions; (3) Young Girl Leaders as peer ambassadors; (4) rehabilitation of hygiene infrastructure in school; and (5) school-level hygiene committees. Pilot Activities: We will pilot the intervention and data collection instruments in approximately 10 government schools (grades 5-7) in rural Rajasthan. The pilot will (1) evaluate operational feasibility and acceptance, (2) inform treatment arm decisions by testing approaches to targeting boys and obtaining community buy-in, and (3) validate outcome measurement of stigma, wellbeing, attendance, and learning. Partners and Timeline: Project Baala leads implementation; J-PAL South Asia leads data collection. Pilot will be between April 2026–June 2027, informing a full-scale RCT.