Browsing by Author "Karki, Prabin Kumar"
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Publication A Cross Sectional Study on Menstrual Hygiene Practices Among Adolescent School Girls(Rapti Academy of Health Sciences (RAHS), 2025) Karki, Prabin Kumar; Khakurel, Gita; Shrestha, Biju; Gautam, KalyanAbstract: Introduction: Menstrual hygiene is an important component of adolescent girls reproductive health and well-being. Inadequate knowledge, poor access to sanitary materials, and cultural taboos can negatively affect health, education, and quality of life. In Nepal, socio-cultural practices and limited resources often hinder proper menstrual hygiene management among school girls. This study was conducted to assess menstrual pattern and hygiene practices during menstrual cycle among adolescent school girls. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 210 adolescent school girls from grade 7 to 10 of secondary schools located at Balkot, Bhaktapur. Data were collected using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire covering menarche age, menstrual patterns, hygiene practices and availability of facilities. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23, with descriptive statistics recorded. Results: A total of 210 participants were included in the study. Mean age of menarche was 11.86±1.09 years. During menstruation, 95.24% used commercially available sanitary pads only. All the participants practiced proper disposal of sanitary materials, and had access to private washing facilities at school. Good menstrual hygiene practice was observed among most of the participants. Conclusion: Menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent school girls in Nepal remains a challenge. Majority of participants in our study reported availability of separate girls toilet with access to water and soap/handwash, however sanitary pads weren’t available at school. Improving school based menstrual education, ensuring the availability of sanitary pads, and enhancing water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure in schools are essential to promote better menstrual health and reduce school absenteeism.