A Study on Menstrual Hygiene Awareness and Related Myths in Reproductive Age Group Women at Govt. Maternity Hospital, Tirupati

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological process every woman faces. But in our country, many myths, taboos, norms restrict and limit freedom of women in the reproductive age group. Awareness of health care needs and requirements during menstruation among women has to be evaluated, and correct knowledge and proper menstrual hygiene practices have to be recommended. Methods: Women were asked about their menstruation knowledge, awareness of menstrual hygiene, and their perception of the myths and taboos followed during menstruation. A structured knowledge questionnaire is developed focusing on menstrual hygiene and myths regarding menstruation. Data collection was done through person to person interview of study subjects by a single female investigator. Results: out of 100 women, 37 % aged between 26-30 years, 84 % attained menarche at 12 years of age, 59 % completed their primary schooling, and 94 % knew about menstruation before menarche, which is from their mothers in 76 %.71 believed menstruation as a routine process, 15 women did not know the cause.63 % had dysmenorrhoea as abdominal cramps, and 83 % used sanitary napkins and disposed of in waste bins, 17 % had a habit of reusing clothes after washing. All of the women practiced some or other kind of restrictions during menstruation. Only 86 % of the women take a bath every day, but 14 % take a shower only after completion of their menses.49 women had health problems during menstruation, but only 23 consulted a doctor.90 % of the women felt less confident during their menstrual period than their usual time. Conclusions: Restrictions due to menstruation were very highly imposed. Menstrual hygiene, a significant part of health education. Knowledge regarding menstruation is satisfactory, but there is a need for proper professional counseling to clarify misconceptions and education about reproductive health and menstrual hygiene among reproductive age group women to maintain proper health.