A study on the relationship of sociocultural characteristics, menstrual hygiene practices and gynaecological problems among adolescent girls in Eastern India

Abstract

Objective: The present study aims to understand the relationship of socioeconomic characteristics, menstrual hygiene practices and gynaecological problems among adolescent girls residing in rural and urban areas in the state of West Bengal, India.

Methods: The study was based on a sample of 715 adolescent girls from rural (325) and urban (390) areas of West Bengal, a state in Eastern India. These girls belong to the Bengali-speaking Hindu community. Data on socioeconomic characteristics, menstrual hygiene practices (such as type of absorbents used and mode of cleaning of genitals during days of menstrual discharge) and gynaecological problems were collected using pretested questionnaires.

Results: Rural and urban girls differ (p<0.01) for age at menarche, menstrual hygiene practices and prevalence of gynaecological problems. Urban girls have better menstrual hygiene practices (β=0.343, p<0.01) than rural girls. A similar trend is noted for gynaecological problems (β=0.080, p<0.01) among the study participants. Apart from socioeconomic characteristics, menstrual hygiene (β=-0.121, p<0.01) remains a significant predictor of gynaecological problems. The results of path analysis also indicate that girls of higher socioeconomic status have better menstrual hygiene practices which subsequently reduce the prevalence of gynaecological problems among them.

Conclusion: A concerted effort from parents, educational institutions and existing healthcare institutions along with media may ensure safe and secure reproductive health prospects for adolescents in the region.

Keywords: India; adolescent girls; gynaecological problems; menstrual hygiene; rural-urban; socioeconomic characteristics.