Menstrual pattern and menstrual hygiene in adolescent girls in North India: A hospital-based study

Abstract

Context: Menstruation is a physiological process that occurs naturally and needs to be managed appropriately. Hygienic menstrual practices, such as the use of sanitary pads, are crucial during menstruation. Adolescent girls are prone to emotional and physical challenges during their menstruation days because of a lack of knowledge and proper sanitary facilities. Aims: This study was sought to investigate the age at menarche, menstrual pattern, menstrual hygiene practice and association with psychological stress in adolescent girls in North India. Settings and Design: This was a retrospective descriptive hospital-based study including 150 adolescent girls attending the outpatient department of a tertiary care centre in North India from April 2022 to September 2022. Subjects and Methods: The data were collected retrospectively from the registry system. Statistical Analysis Used: A descriptive research design using frequency, percentage and mean with standard deviation was used to collect and analyse the data using SPPSS-22 software. Results: Approximately, 47% of adolescent girls were unaware of menarche, and most of the girls were baffled by menarche. The majority of information about menstruation was gathered from mothers. During menstruation, exclusion and embarrassment lead to misconceptions and unsanitary practices. Instead of seeking medical advice, girls prefer to skip school, self-medicate and limit social contact. Conclusions: Adolescent girls’ health education must include learning about proper menstrual hygiene and psychological counselling to maintain hygienic habits and prevent absenteeism in school.