Measuring Behavioral Change: The Role of Strategic Post Promotion in Enhancing Sanitary Pad Use in Raghunathganj, West Bengal.

The effective promotion of sanitary pad use is a critical public health objective, particularly in regions like Raghunathganj, West Bengal, where traditional practices and socioeconomic factors can hinder widespread adoption. Despite growing awareness campaigns, significant gaps often remain between knowledge and actual behavioral change. Many initiatives focus on product availability and basic education, yet overlook the nuanced influence of strategic communication and sustained reinforcement on individual choices. The transition from awareness to consistent practice in menstrual hygiene management is complex, involving overcoming deeply ingrained social stigmas, addressing financial constraints, and ensuring the continued accessibility and perceived value of sanitary pads. This initiative posits that the strategic promotion of posters, coupled with community engagement, plays a pivotal role in measuring and enhancing behavioral change regarding sanitary pad use in Raghunathganj. While general awareness campaigns might introduce the concept, it is the ongoing visual reinforcement and targeted messaging through thoughtfully designed posters that can cement positive habits. Posters, when strategically placed in community hubs, healthcare centers, and educational institutions, serve as constant reminders and educators, reiterating the health benefits, proper disposal methods, and dispelling myths associated with sanitary pad use. By analyzing changes in sales data, anecdotal evidence from local retailers, and qualitative feedback from women and girls in the area, this program aims to demonstrate how a sustained and strategically implemented poster promotion campaign can effectively bridge the gap between awareness and consistent, hygienic practices, ultimately improving the menstrual health and well-being of women and girls in Raghunathganj.

Project Officer: Dr. Narendra Kumar Jat

Methodology

Measuring Behavioral Change: The Role of Strategic Post Promotion in Enhancing Sanitary Pad Use in Raghunathganj, West Bengal.

This study employs a quasi-experimental design to assess the impact of strategically placed post promotions on enhancing sanitary pad use among women and girls in Raghunathganj, West Bengal. The methodology will involve both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of behavioral change.

Quantitative Data Collection:

1. Baseline Survey (Pre-intervention): A cross-sectional survey will be conducted among a representative sample of 500 women and adolescent girls (aged 12-49) in Raghunathganj. The survey will gather data on current menstrual hygiene practices, including types of menstrual absorbents used, frequency of sanitary pad use, perceived barriers to sanitary pad adoption (cost, availability, social stigma, lack of awareness), and knowledge of proper menstrual hygiene management. Sampling will utilize a stratified random sampling approach to ensure representation across different socio-economic groups and geographical areas within Raghunathganj.

2. Post-Promotion Intervention: Educational posters promoting sanitary pad use, highlighting benefits, proper disposal, and dispelling myths, will be strategically placed in high-visibility locations across Raghunathganj. These locations will include public health centers, schools, community centers, local markets, and women's self-help group meeting points. The posters will be designed in the local language (Bengali) with clear, concise messages and compelling visuals. The intervention period will span three months.

3. Endline Survey (Post-intervention): Following the three-month intervention, an identical survey will be administered to the same sample population to measure changes in sanitary pad usage, knowledge, and attitudes. This will allow for a direct comparison of pre- and post-intervention behavioral patterns.

Qualitative Data Collection:

1. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs): Four FGDs will be conducted (two with adolescent girls, two with adult women) both pre- and post-intervention. These discussions will explore in-depth perceptions of menstrual hygiene, the effectiveness of the posters, challenges faced in adopting sanitary pads, and perceived social norms. Each FGD will comprise 8-10 participants to encourage rich discussion.

2. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs): Interviews will be conducted with 10 key informants, including local health workers, teachers, community leaders, and sanitary pad retailers. These interviews will provide insights into community-level perceptions, logistical challenges, and the broader impact of the awareness campaign.

Data Analysis:

Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means) and inferential statistics (chi-square tests, paired t-tests) to determine significant differences between pre- and post-intervention usage rates and knowledge levels. Qualitative data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes, perceptions, and experiences related to sanitary pad use and the effectiveness of the promotional materials. Ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality, will be strictly adhered to throughout the study.