Publication:

Awareness and attitude towards menstruation and menstrual hygiene among college students in Ernakulam district, Kerala

Background Menstruation is a normal physiological process essential for women’s physical, mental, and social well-being. However, social norms, cultural beliefs, and misconceptions continue to influence perceptions regarding menstruation, particularly among young adults.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students aged 18-25 years using a pre-validated semi-structured questionnaire. Convenience sampling and online data collection were employed. A total of 315 responses were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Knowledge and attitude scores were assessed, and associations with sociodemographic variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results Among participants, 47.9% were females and 52.1% were males, with a mean age of 20.7 years. Overall, 54.3% demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding menstruation and menstrual hygiene. Adequate knowledge was significantly higher among females, urban residents, and participants whose mothers had high school education or above. Positive attitudes towards menstruation were observed in 59% of participants and were significantly associated with nuclear family structure (p=0.021). Participants with adequate knowledge were more likely to exhibit positive attitudes (p=0.011). Misconceptions regarding menstruation were relatively less prevalent.

Conclusions College students demonstrated moderate to adequate knowledge and generally positive attitudes towards menstruation and menstrual hygiene. Improved awareness was associated with favourable attitudes, emphasizing the role of education and family environment in promoting healthy menstrual perceptions and practices.