Perception and feedback from women in Gaza and Lebanon on the effectiveness and appropriateness of Reemi products
In humanitarian crises, menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is often overlooked, yet it is essential to the dignity, health, and daily wellbeing of women and girls. This report presents initial findings from an evaluation of innovative reusable MHM kits developed by Reemi and distributed by Oxfam as part of their emergency response to the Israel-Gaza and Israel-Lebanon conflicts (2024–2025). Funded by Elrha, the project aimed to address the urgent need for sustainable menstrual products in emergencies, while supporting the broader adoption of innovation within humanitarian response.
The product package included reusable antimicrobial menstrual underwear, a wash bag, and a drying bag designed for discreet, hygienic use in low-resource settings. Originally intended for Gaza, the distribution expanded due to access constraints, ultimately reaching 5,000 women in Gaza and 2,132 women in Lebanon. The evaluation was conducted by Groupe URD, in partnership with Reemi, Oxfam, and local partners, and complements a forthcoming full evaluation and a separate report on scaling humanitarian innovation.
Findings from Gaza were particularly striking. Despite extreme conditions, including mass displacement and limited access to clean water, product uptake was exceptionally high. After 3-6 months, 99.8% of women were still using the menstrual underwear, and usage of wash and drying bags reached 100%. Awareness sessions led to a significant increase in MHM knowledge, with 100% of participants reporting improved understanding and confidence. Women cited economic relief, improved physical comfort, and reduced stress as major benefits, with over 97% saying the products met or exceeded expectations.
In Lebanon, where economic crisis and overcrowding have made disposable MHM products unaffordable, response to the kits was also positive, though adoption varied. 87% of women continued using the menstrual underwear after three months, with partial-cycle use more common. Wash and drying bag usage was higher in Beirut’s refugee camps than in South Lebanon, reflecting differences in living conditions. Key challenges included fit issues, minor allergic reactions, and cultural concerns around handwashing and drying practices, but overall, 98% of women said they would recommend the kits to others.
Across both countries, Reemi’s products were consistently rated higher than disposable pads in terms of comfort, affordability, and sustainability. The evaluation underscores that reusable MHM products can be both practical and empowering in crisis contexts, especially when paired with effective education, cultural sensitivity, and ongoing support. The project offers valuable lessons for scaling innovation in humanitarian WASH and protection programming, and for ensuring that menstruation is never an after thought in emergency response. The full report will be launched later this year.