This collection seeks to examine the multifaceted impact of menstruation—including menstrual health, hygiene, and justice—on adolescent girls’ sexual and reproductive health (SRH) within educational settings in low-resource contexts. These include low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), high-income countries (HICs) with marginalized populations, and communities facing socioeconomic disadvantages, homelessness, or geographic isolation (e.g., rural and remote areas).

We aim to spotlight how inadequate menstrual health in these contexts can hinder girls’ educational experiences and broader life outcomes. Poor menstrual health is not only a barrier to consistent school attendance and academic performance but also has far-reaching implications for sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and long-term economic empowerment. We are particularly interested in studies that explore the intersectionality of menstrual health with other social determinants of health and education, and that evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, policies, and innovative approaches aimed at improving menstrual equity.

We welcome original research—both qualitative and quantitative—that investigates the challenges adolescent girls face with regards menstrual health while attending school, including those linked to reproductive and sexual health, and that proposes actionable solutions. Key areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Sociocultural taboos, stigma, and lack of a supportive school environment

• Educational gaps in menstrual and reproductive health literacy

• Causes of menstruation-related school absenteeism beyond a lack of products, and this absenteeism’s impact on academic and psychosocial outcomes

• Strategies to engage boys and male educators in fostering a positive and inclusive menstrual health culture

• Understanding the links between menstruation and other areas of sexual and reproductive health, including the links between menstruation and reproductive justice, and contraception and family planning

By bringing together diverse perspectives and evidence-based research, this collection aspires to inform policy, guide program development, and ultimately contribute to the empowerment and well-being of adolescent girls in under-resourced educational settings.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4, Quality Education, SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequality.

We are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or contact the Editor-in-Chief.

This collection aims to assess disparities and barriers in access to maternal care, contraception, and safe delivery services among displaced populations —both within and across countries— compared to host communities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and developed countries. Displaced populations often face significant challenges in accessing essential healthcare services, which can lead to poorer health outcomes for mothers and infants. These challenges include higher rates of maternal and infant mortality, due to inadequate access to quality maternal care and contraception, as well as increased rates of cervical and breast cancer, due to low rates of vaccination and inadequate screening.

The collection welcomes studies that explore various approaches to address these disparities, including:

• Improving cultural competency among healthcare providers. By understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds of displaced populations, healthcare providers can offer more effective and personalized care.

• Increasing financial access to healthcare services. Many displaced individuals face financial barriers that prevent them from seeking necessary medical care. Strategies to reduce these financial obstacles can significantly improve health outcomes.

• Involving communities in the design and implementation of health programs. Community engagement ensures that health interventions are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the populations they serve. This participatory approach can lead to more sustainable and impactful health programs.

• Encouraging innovative approaches and the implementation of relevant technologies among migrants and refugees.

• Raising awareness of prevention, screening, and access to care for cervical and breast cancers.

Overall, this collection aims to highlight innovative solutions and best practices to reduce health disparities and improve maternal and infant health among international and internally displaced populations.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 1, No Poverty, SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities.

We are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or contact the Editor-in-Chief.