Publication:

Exploring the knowledge, attitude and practices about menstrual hygiene management among the reproductive age group women of urban slums in Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Background Menstruation is a typical physiological process resulting from hormonal changes in the body. Many social and cultural misconceptions, as well as taboos, surround menstruation. The study aims to determine knowledge, attitude and practice about menstrual hygiene and menstruation in the reproductive age group women of the urban slum of Ahmedabad.

Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out in Ahmedabad, Gujarat's west zone slums, from February to April 2022. In the west zone, Ambawadi and Vasna were chosen randomly from the four slum regions. Convenient sampling was used to recruit 120 women in total. A standardized questionnaire including sociodemographic information, menstrual history, knowledge, attitude and hygiene behaviours was used to gather data.

Results The majority of responders (71.66%) were between the ages of 15 and 34.  85%of those surveyed used public restrooms. 33% were aware that menstruation is a typical physiological occurrence. 63.33% of respondents were unaware of the true reason and source of monthly bleeding. 92.5% of women used cloth during their periods, despite 100% of respondents believing that sanitary napkins should be used. Sanitary napkins were used by only 7.5%. Menstruating women should be treated differently, according to the majority (61.66%). 94.16 % of respondents agreed that females should get education about menstruation before to menarche.

Conclusions The study draws attention to the participants' poor cleanliness habits, ingrained cultural taboos and notable gaps in their understanding of menstruation health. The persistent preference for cloth despite widespread awareness of sanitary napkins suggests obstacles relating to accessibility, cost, or cultural norms.