Assessment of Perceptions and Practices on Menstruation among Adolescent Girls in Five Schools in bo district, Sierra Leone

Abstract

Menstrual hygiene is essential as it promotes the health of women. Unhygienic menstrual practices can affect the health of girls and can lead to urinary tract infections. Many girls deficient of appropriate knowledge in menstruation and menstrual hygiene. It is therefore necessary to assess their perceptions, problems, and practices on menstruation. This Cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 103 secondary school girls from five schools in the southern part of Sierra Leone via structured questionnaire. Majority of the students, were aged 15-18 years. 29.1% of the girl’s attained menstruation at age 14 years. 57.3% of the girls believed that the normal monthly interval of menstruation is 28 days. 33% of the girls said Menstruation upsets them. Staining of dress and bad odor 30.1% were the most embarrassment faced by girls during menstruation. 64.1% of the girls said Scared was their reaction to Menstruation. 78.6% of the girls said Worried is how they feel when they don’t get their period on time. Menstrual problems were most commonly discussed with their mothers, (68%), and least commonly discussed with the fathers, 1.9%. Majority of the respondents had poor knowledge on menstruation, menstrual hygiene and practices. Menstruation perceptions are poor, and practices often incorrect. A multi-dimensional approach focusing on capacity building of mothers, and teachers on sexuality education skills; using religious organizations as avenues for sexuality education; and effectively using the Mass Media as reproductive health education channels are recommended towards improving adolescents’ perceptions and practices on menstruation. (Afr Reprod Health 2008; 12[1]:74-83).