Menstrual Hygiene Among School-Going Adolescent Girls in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon unique to females and is a healthy, natural process associated with reproductive maturation in adolescent girls. Menstrual hygiene is therefore an essential part of basic hygienic practices. Poor hygiene practices may affect their health. Menstrual hygiene is an issue that needs to be addressed at all levels.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for data collection.

Results: The mean age of the adolescent girls was 14.27±0.860. The study found significant differences in knowledge levels across religious groups (p < 0.001), with Buddhists demonstrating low levels of knowledge, Christians demonstrating high levels, and Muslims and Hindus showing mixed results. However, no significant impact on knowledge levels was observed based on age, household income, educational levels of parents, occupation, house type, or family structure. Additionally, fathers’ occupation (p=0.001) and house type (p=0.055) notably influenced menstrual practice, while other factors like age, income, parental education, and family type showed no significant impact on practice levels.

Conclusion: The study underscores the significance of socio-demographic factors in shaping menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls, advocating for tailored interventions based on religion, father’s occupation, and house type. It emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to improve overall awareness and practices regarding menstrual hygiene.