Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene Management among Adolescent Girls in Senior Secondary Schools in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Menstrual hygiene management is an important component of adolescent health and well-being. This study examined knowledge and practices relating to menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls in senior secondary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria, including variations according to age, school location and mothers’ educational level. Method: The study was guided by eight research questions. A descriptive cross-sectional (survey) research design was adopted. The population comprised 967 adolescent girls in senior secondary schools in the selected educational zones (Awka, Aguata, and Nnewi) in Anambra State. A sample of 97 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique involving simple random, purposive, and stratified proportionate sampling techniques. Data were collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire titled Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene Management (KPMHM). The reliability of the instrument was established through a pilot study involving 20 respondents using Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20) and Cronbach's alpha, which yielded reliability coefficients of 0.97 for knowledge and 0.64 for practice, indicating that the instrument was reliable for the study. Data were analysed using the mean to answer the research questions. Results: The findings revealed that a moderate proportion of the respondents had knowledge of menstrual hygiene management; however, notable gaps still existed, particularly regarding the causes of menstruation and appropriate hygiene practices. In terms of practice, the findings indicated that a significant number of respondents did not consistently maintain proper menstrual hygiene because of limited access to sanitary materials, inadequate water and sanitation facilities, and insufficient guidance from parents and teachers. Conclusion: The study concluded that inadequate knowledge contributes to poor menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls. It recommended intensified health education, increased parental involvement, and improved provision of menstrual hygiene facilities in schools to promote proper menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls in Anambra State.