Evaluation of Environmental Pollution and Public Health Hazards Related to Menstrual Hygiene Waste Management Practices in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Benstowe; M. U.; Dollah; O. C; Dasetima-Altraide; J. O

doi:10.56201/ijgem.vol.12.no8.2026.pg230.242

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Evaluation of Environmental Pollution and Public Health Hazards Related to Menstrual Hygiene Waste Management Practices in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Benstowe, M. U., Dollah, O. C , Dasetima-Altraide, J. O

Abstract

This research examines the issues of environmental contamination and health threats related to the management of menstrual hygiene waste in the Port Harcourt Metropolis. A mixed-methods strategy was employed, which included a cross-sectional analysis involving 372 women of childbearing age alongside laboratory evaluations of pollutants released from the incineration of popular menstrual pad brands. The data collected from surveys were processed using descriptive statistical methods and chi-square analyses, whereas laboratory evaluations utilized Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy techniques to identify organic pollutants and heavy metals. Environmental and health risks were assessed further using models such as the Enrichment Factor, Contamination Factor, Potential Ecological Risk Index, and Hazard Quotient. The results indicated a wide variety in brand usage with no single brand being predominantly favored, while the primary disposal method reported was municipal waste collection at a rate of 53.2%. Nonetheless, dangerous disposal methods such as incineration (19.5%), open dumping (13.1%), and flushing (7.3%) were still commonly practiced. Despite 80.1% of participants recognizing environmental pollution, and 95.1% understanding the public health impacts, 80.5% noted a lack of sufficient disposal facilities, showcasing a notable disconnect between understanding and action. It was estimated that around 11.39 million menstrual pads are disposed of monthly and about 136.66 million yearly, indicating a significant environmental impact. Laboratory findings indicated that levels of phenol and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons surpassed the allowable limits across all analyzed brands, though heavy metals showed only slight exceedances, and BTEX compounds were within safe limits. Statistical evaluations revealed a notable correlation between environmental awareness and disposal methods (χ2 = 22.88, p < 0.05), yet awareness did not translate to secure practices. The research concludes that the handling of menstrual waste in Port Harcourt presents substantial environmental and health risks, largely due to insufficient infrastructure and social behaviors. It suggests enhancing waste management systems, advocating for biodegradable options, and implementing focused public health initiatives to close the gap between awareness and practice, thus mitigating pollution risks.

Keywords

EnvironmentalPollutionHealthHazards. MenstrualHygiene & Waste IJGEM IIARD International Journal of Geography & Environmental Management

References

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Evaluation of Environmental Pollution and Public Health Hazards Related to Menstrual Hygiene Waste Management Practices in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Abstract

Keywords

References

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