Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene among College Students

The onset of menstruation is the most important physical change that occurs among girls during adolescence. Menstrual hygiene management is an important issue for girls. Lack of education and communication regarding reproductive system further adds to the problem. Several studies have shown that the knowledge regarding menstrual cycle is not sufficient. Insufficient management of menstrual hygiene may result in symptoms involving genitourinary tracts. With this background, the present study was conducted. The objective of the study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices in relation to menstrual cycle and factors influencing the same. A questionnaire related to knowledge, attitude and practice was developed and employed to collect data from pharmacy students at Ezhuthachan College of pharmaceutical sciences. A total of 110 girls were studied. Overall, the knowledge about menstrual cycle is good. Menstrual awareness was found in 88.1% of girls. Source of knowledge for most of the girls were mothers, followed by friends.91.8% are using sanitary pads.