PERCEPTION OF THE WOMEN REGARDING MENSTRUAL HYGIENE

Abstract

Objective: To assess the perceptions, practices, and challenges related to MHM among women attending a tertiary care hospital, identifying gaps in awareness and resource accessibility.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study.

Study Setting: The study was conducted at the department of Obstetrics and gynecology, Central Park Medical and Teaching Hospital, Lahore.

Study Duration: Six Months (March to Dec’2024).

Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed, with a structured questionnaire used to collect data from 160 female participants aged 13–50 years. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, menstrual hygiene knowledge, perceptions, and practices.

Results: Among the participants, 88.8% reported awareness of menstrual hygiene, while 49% lacked prior knowledge before menarche. Economic constraints were identified as a major barrier (32.5%), followed by cultural taboos (24.4%) and lack of education (19.4%). 67.5% used sanitary pads, while 19.4% relied on cloth due to affordability issues. 23.1% of participants reported genital infections, highlighting potential health risks associated with inadequate menstrual hygiene. 44% of Pakistani girls lack access to basic menstrual hygiene facilities, emphasizing the need for policy reforms.

Conclusion: We found a significant gap in menstrual health accessibility, awareness, and cultural awareness. Strengthening MHM requires governmental subsidies for menstrual products, structured school-based education programs and efforts to destigmatize menstruation by engaging the community.