Publication:

Knowledge, practices and problem towards menstrual cycle with their socio economic status: a comparative study of tribal and non tribal female

Background Menstruation is a normal biological process and a key sign of reproductive health. Good hygiene practices are essential during menstruation. The current study was conducted to assess the knowledge, awareness and practices related to menstrual hygiene management and find out the relationship between the socio economic status and age at menarche (AAM) among tribal (Oraon) and nontribal female in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal.

Methods A field based cross-sectional study was conducted among tribal (Oraon) and nontribal female in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal. A total of 120 samples (60 tribal and 60 nontribal) were interviewed by using pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS (ver. 16).

Results The present study shows that the tribal female had poor knowledge about menstruation and menstrual hygiene than the nontribal female. Use of sanitary napkins among the nontribal female (66.7%) where as reverse in case of tribal female (use of cloths 66.7%). Study shows with increasing monthly family income and socio economic status, mean AAM decreases. There was statistically significant difference between the two groups (tribal and nontribal) for all socio economic parameter but not AAM distribution.

Conclusions There is an urgent need to create awareness regarding menstrual hygiene among all the females in the society. The role of teachers and media should be enhanced. This will help in reducing the burden of menstrual related health problem and improve the reproductive health.