Study on the knowledge of school girls regarding menstrual and reproductive health and their perceptions about family life education program

Abstract

Background: The doctors of The Obstetric and Gynecological Society of Bhopal and the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal have been imparting Family Life Education to school girls and aganwadis as part of their school health program. This project was designed to evaluate the effect of school health programs and to gain an insight into the perceptions of the school girls regarding menstruation, hygiene, nutrition, marriage and the program.Methods: The study was conducted in five schools in which 537 girls participated. A questionnaire was provided to the school girls to know their knowledge and perception regarding menstruation, reproduction, nutrition and their views on the quality and usefulness of the Family life skills sessions.Results: The study showed that most of the girls gained information about menstruation from their mothers. Menstruation is still considered as something shameful and young girls face many restrictions. Knowledge regarding menstruation, reproduction, contraception and diet is still lacking among the school girls. Family life skill sessions address these issues very effectively. Most of the girls enjoyed the sessions and were ready for more.Conclusions: The Family Life sessions provide age appropriate, uniform skilled advice on nutrition, prevention of anemia, hygiene (menstrual), problems of growing years, career counseling, safe sex, contraception, teenage pregnancy and exclusive breastfeeding. Imparting family life skills to school girls provides a welcome platform for them to interact with doctors and counsellors, increasing their knowledge on health issues like menstruation, hygiene and nutrition.