Menstrual Hygiene Practices among Rural Women in Kumaon Community Nainital, Uttrakhand: A Cross-Sectional Study

Menstrual Hygiene Practices among Kumaon Community

Abstract

In developing countries, poor menstrual hygiene practices become a major health issue.  Women's menstrual hygiene practices are essential since they have a health impact in becoming more susceptible to reproductive tract infections (RTI). This population-based cross-sectional study was carried out to examine the prevalence of menstrual hygiene practices and their association with socio-demographic characteristics. 346 people aged 15 to 49 years old from Okhalkanda Block in Nainital district, Uttrakhand, participated in the survey. According to the survey, 35.26% of participants used sanitary napkins and  there is a statistically significant relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and menstrual hygiene practice. 86.42% of women change their pads three times or fewer per day.. 42.49% of females prefer to dry their clothes outside at night, while 21.68% prefer to dry them inside. This study highlighted the critical need for accurate menstrual information. Personal hygiene was not adequate during menstruation, which was influenced by factors such as water accessibility and education. Adolescent education is critical for health defense. Women must be educated about the physiological elements of menstruation and conventional beliefs must be challenged. Menstruation should be openly discussed by mothers.