Abstract / Summary
Background Menstrual health and hygiene research in LMICs has largely focused on girls and women, with limited synthesis of male knowledge, attitudes and roles. Yet, male engagement is important because boys and men can shape sociocultural norms and support for menstrual health and hygiene. Methods This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and reported following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses standards. A search of PubMed Central, ERIC, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, and PsycInfo led to the inclusion of thirteen studies. Results Across the 13 included studies, males’ knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and reported supportive roles varied across settings. Several studies described limited biological understanding, misconceptions, stigma, discomfort, and restricted discussion, while others reported adequate knowledge, empathetic attitudes, or willingness to support menstruating individuals. Educational exposure, family and peer contact, and sociocultural norms were mostly associated with these outcomes. Moreover, the knowledge–attitude–behaviour gap indicated that improved awareness alone does not translate into reduced stigma or supportive practices. Conclusion Male engagement in menstruation in LMICs may be shaped by educational, social and cultural contexts and boys and men can become supportive allies when structural and sociocultural barriers are addressed.