A Cross Sectional Study on Various Menstrual Hygiene Products Used Among College Going Students of Central Gujarat, India

Authors

  • Bhoomi Bavadiya Third year part two medical student: GMERS Medical Collage, Gotri.
  • Dhruvi Thakur Third year part two medical student: GMERS Medical Collage, Gotri.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ijms.2023.2325

Keywords:

Menstrual Hygiene, Menstrual Hygiene Products, Women’s Health

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In recent years, there has been significant progress in raising awareness about menstruation in Indian society, primarily through educational initiatives and various communication channels. However, one critical aspect that often remains overlooked is menstrual hygiene products. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by conducting a quantitative assessment of students' preferences, their level of knowledge, reliability ratings, and acceptability of various menstrual hygiene products. Additionally, the secondary objective is to identify the common challenges and discomforts frequently experienced by women when using these hygiene products.

METHODS: This study takes on a descriptive approach, primarily focusing on assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to menstrual hygiene products among young females. Data for this study was collected through online questionnaires and meticulously organized in Excel sheets for comprehensive analysis.

RESULTS: Our research involved 186 medical students, the majority of whom displayed a good understanding of menstrual hygiene products and their usage. It is noteworthy that 75% of the students reported facing issues while using these products. However, these challenges did not significantly disrupt their daily activities, indicating their resilience and adaptability in managing these difficulties.

CONCLUSION: Disposable pads emerged as the favored menstrual hygiene product among the participants due to their convenience, hygiene, comfort, and high absorption capacity. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that users of disposable pads often encounter issues such as skin irritation, leakage, unpleasant odors, and a potential risk of infection. This underscores the need for continuous efforts to improve product design and education surrounding menstrual hygiene to ensure the well-being and comfort of women.

 

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References

Anne Sebert Kuhlmann et al. Menstrual Hygiene Management in Resource-Poor Countries. 2017 Jun;72(6):356-376.

Shannon A McMahon. 'The girl with her period is the one to hang her head' Reflections on menstrual management among schoolgirls in rural Kenya.BMC International Health and Human Rights.16 june 2011.

van Eijk AM, Jayasinghe N, Zulaika G, Mason L, Sivakami M, et al. (2021) Exploring menstrual products: A systematic review and meta-analysis of reusable menstrual pads for public health internationally. PLOS ONE 16(9): e0257610.

Ying chen, Elizabeth Bruning et al. Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: Global hygiene practices and product usage. ResearchGate. September 2017. DOI:10.1177|1745505717731011

Hisham arab et al. The middle east and central Asia guidelines on female genital hygiene.CCM Middle East s.a.r.l.

Sommer, M., Hirsch, J. S., Nathanson, C., et al. (2015). Comfortably, Safely, and Without Shame: Defining Menstrual Hygiene Management as a Public Health Issue. American Journal of Public Health, 105(7), 1302-1311.

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Published

2023-12-19

How to Cite

Bavadiya, B., & Thakur, D. (2023). A Cross Sectional Study on Various Menstrual Hygiene Products Used Among College Going Students of Central Gujarat, India. International Journal of Medical Students, 11, S99. https://doi.org/10.5195/ijms.2023.2325

Issue

Vol 11. (2023): Supplement 1

Section

Abstracts of the WCMSR

Categories

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Copyright (c) 2023 Bhoomi Bavadiya, Dhruvi Thakur

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