ASSESSMENT ON THE KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF MENSTRUAL HYGIENE AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS

DOI: https://doie.org/10.65985/jbse.2025691733

Mrs. P. Sheela, Inder Singh, Indhumathy, Irin Joshy

Keywords:

menstrual hygiene; adolescent girls; knowledge; practice; menarche; educational intervention

Abstract:

Background: Menstrual hygiene is a vital aspect of adolescent health, often neglected in low- and middle-income countries. Adolescents face social taboos, misinformation, and restrictive practices that hinder knowledge and proper hygiene, impacting their health and well-being. Methods: This quantitative descriptive study assessed menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices among 100 adolescent girls in a selected secondary school using a structured self administered questionnaire. Data on demographic variables and menstrual hygiene understanding and practice were collected and analyzed. Results: Most participants (56%) had moderate knowledge, while only 26% showed adequate knowledge. Practice levels were lower, with just 13% demonstrating adequate menstrual hygiene practices. Age, education, and religion did not significantly affect knowledge, but earlier menarche was associated with lower knowledge. Conclusion: Despite moderate knowledge levels, menstrual hygiene practices are inadequate due to socio-cultural and economic barriers. Early, targeted educational interventions and family-centered programs are essential to improve menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls. 

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