A Study on menstruation and menstrual hygiene among Pre-University girls in Davangere district, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: Disturbances of menstruation, either actual or perceived, are the commonest presenting complaint in the adolescent age group. Though menstruation is a physiological process, this could be associated with certain conditions which need prompt diagnosis and management. If it is neglected it can pose a great problems. And unhygienic practices during menstruation can lead to untoward consequences like Pelvic inflammatory Diseases, Infertility Etc. Objectives: 1. To know the menstrual problems among Pre- University(PU) girls. 2. To know about the hygienic practices and level of menstrual hygiene among them Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Pre-university colleges present in Davangere city. A total of 362 students were included, of which 114 students were from Government colleges and 248 students from private colleges. The sample selected is proportional to the total number of students in the colleges. Later the data was collected regarding the menstrual problems and their practices during menstruation with the help of prestructured proforma and analyzed. Statistical analysis Done by using SPSS 15.0. Chi square test. Results: 68% of them attained menarche by 12 years of age and the 97% of them with normal menstrual flow. About 97% of them complained of dysmenorrhoea and 80% of them had taken treatment from doctors for the same. About 3% of them had abnormal white discharge. It is encouraging to know that about 60% of them used sanitary napkins during menstruation and knew the correct method of disposal. Conclusion: In this study among PU girls, though they had experienced menstruation for about 4-5 years, their level of menstrual hygiene was not good. Realising the needs and interest to use sanitary pads, it should be made available to all segments of society by social marketing.