Evaluation of Out-Of-School Adolescent Girls' Knowledge of Menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene Practices in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

Menstruation, the shedding of the endometrial lining after embryo implantation failure, is often overlooked due to physical  manifestations and a lack of safe practices. Cultural norms and taboos affect society's perception of women and menstruation, usually  leading to a gap in gender equality. Addressing knowledge gaps is important, as shame and poor menstrual hygiene management  (MHM) have been associated with a lack of knowledge. This study assessed the knowledge of menstruation and the practice of menstrual  hygiene among out-of-school adolescent girls in Maiduguri, Borno State. The study utilised an interview-administered  questionnaire with a multi-stage sampling technique and analysed the data using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The 16-17  age group accounted for the majority of respondents, with 210 not knowing about menstruation before menarche and 216 and 199 using  disposable and non-disposable sanitary pads, respectively. The majority of respondents, 62.3% and 67.9%, exhibited good  knowledge and practice in menstruation and menstrual hygiene. One-third, 34.5% of respondents used disposable pads, 57.7% changed  them daily, 87.3% cleaned their bodies with soap and water, and 55.9% disposed of them in the toilet. The Borno State and the federal government should promote adolescent education, subsidise menstrual hygiene products, and enhance public WASH facilities to  facilitate effective change among adolescent girls.