GENDER MAINSTREAMING: A HEALTH SYSTEMS RESEARCH STUDY OF SCHOOL GIRLS AGED 13–18 YEARS IN WESTERN MAHARASHTRA

Abstract

Background: Gender mainstreaming ensures that men’s and women’s experiences inform policies and programs, aiming for equitable benefits and the avoidance of perpetuated inequality. Adolescent girls in India often face social restrictions, undernutrition, early marriage, and limited health awareness. This study evaluated the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of school-going adolescent girls (ages 13–18) regarding gender-related issues, personal hygiene, and emotional stability in a semi-urban region of Western Maharashtra.
Methods: A cross-sectional Health Systems Research design was used over 12 months in five schools. A total of 1,024 eligible girls aged 13–18 years participated. A semi-structured questionnaire covered socio-demographics, BMI, menstrual hygiene practices, awareness of the legal age of marriage, and emotional stability. Anthropometric data were recorded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted.
Results: Among 1,024 participants, 47.2% had a normal BMI, 43.7% were underweight, and 9.1% were overweight. About 74% used sanitary pads; however, 37% had no prior knowledge of menstruation before menarche. Sixty-nine percent knew the legal age of marriage (18 years), and 80% felt they should be financially or personally independent prior to marriage. Emotional stability was mostly “medium” (63.4%). Mothers were the primary source of information on puberty (83%) and menstruation (80%).
Conclusion: While the girls demonstrated relatively good awareness of menstrual hygiene and legal marriage norms, undernutrition and knowledge gaps about reproductive health remain challenges. Strengthening health education interventions, ensuring sanitary pad accessibility in schools, and embedding mental health support in curricula are recommended to advance meaningful gender mainstreaming and equality.