A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF MENSTRUAL HYGIENE AMONGAU FEMALE STUDENTS

Tabarak Ahmed, Zahraa Saad, Nageeb Hassan and Moyad Shahwan*

ABSTRACT

Menstruation and menstrual practices are associated with taboos and socio-cultural restrictions. Good hygienic practices such as the use of sanitary pads and adequate washing of genital area are essential during menstruation. Doctors are the main health care providers and thus, their knowledge helps in transforming the community practices. Aims and objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of menstrual hygiene among Ajman university (AU) female students. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 500 females of AU students. A pre formed pretested questionnaire was used. Data were analyzed statistically by simple proportions. Results: Most of the girls (n=384, 76.8%) were in the age group of 18-21 years. Surprisingly, 31.8% (159) girls were ignorant about menstruation before menarche. We found that in 52.40% (n=262) of students, menstrual habits were inculcated by their mothers. 70% (n=350) of girls were having regular menses.100% (n=500) of girls were reported to experience Premenstrual symptom. 46.8% (n=234) of females were forced to practice restrictions during menses.

Keywords: Menstruation, Menstrual hygiene, Premenstrual syndrome.