Denying humanitarian aid in a war zone: The intersecting impacts of the war on Gaza on adolescent girls’ and young women’s health

Since the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023, Israel has carried out an intensive bombing campaign and implemented a complete siege on Gaza, permitting extremely limited humanitarian aid. This has created a humanitarian catastrophe, yet little evidence exists on how it is experienced by adolescent girls and young women. A critical but overlooked challenge in conflict-affected contexts is the specific health needs of girls and young women, including menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health. In conflict, women and girls often struggle to access contraceptives, menstrual products, clean water and healthcare services, leading to significant immediate and longer-term risks.

Suggested citation

Vintges, J., Abu Hamad, B., Riyad, D., Abuhamad, S.  and Jones, N. (2026). ‘Denying humanitarian aid in a war zone: The intersecting impacts of the war on Gaza on adolescent girls’ and young women’s health’ .Women’s Health, 22 (https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057251414296)