MENSTRUAL HYGIENE EDUCATION AND REPRODUCTIVE TRACT INFECTION PREVALENCE IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Background:
Menstrual hygiene is an important component of adolescent reproductive health, yet many girls in low- and middle-income countries continue to experience difficulties due to inadequate knowledge, limited resources, and socio-cultural barriers. Poor menstrual hygiene practices may contribute to reproductive health problems, including symptoms suggestive of reproductive tract infections (RTIs).

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the association between menstrual hygiene practices and RTI prevalence among adolescent girls and to identify knowledge gaps and social factors affecting menstrual hygiene behavior.

Methods:
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among adolescent girls aged 13–19 years at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. Participants who had attained menarche were recruited through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, menstrual history, hygiene practices, menstrual health knowledge, socio-cultural barriers, and RTI-related symptoms. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, while Chi-square testing and regression analysis were applied to evaluate associations between menstrual hygiene practices and RTI symptoms. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:
The study identified considerable variation in menstrual hygiene practices among participants. Girls with inadequate hygiene practices reported a higher frequency of RTI-related symptoms compared with those following recommended hygiene behaviors. Limited awareness regarding menstrual health, restricted communication about menstruation, and cultural misconceptions were commonly observed barriers. Poor menstrual hygiene practices showed a significant association with increased reporting of symptoms such as abnormal discharge, itching, irritation, and genital discomfort.

Conclusion:
The findings highlight that menstrual hygiene practices are closely linked with adolescent reproductive health outcomes. Improving menstrual health education, reducing social stigma, and ensuring access to proper sanitation facilities and menstrual products are essential steps for preventing menstrual-related health problems. Integrating menstrual hygiene education into adolescent healthcare and school-based programs may help promote healthier practices and improve overall reproductive wellbeing among young females.