Title : Assessment of knowledge and practices regarding menstrual hygiene management and its impact on school absence: Exploring the link between menstrual hygiene practices and academic attendance
Abstract:
Background: Menstruation, a natural process, faces societal stigma and cultural taboos, particularly in low-income settings. Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) is crucial for women's empowerment, requiring access to affordable products, education, and support. Influenced by personal, cultural, and economic factors, the choice of sanitary materials is essential. Sustainable practices involve using reusable, deodorized products, highlighting the importance of proper washing and drying for overall well-being. We conducted this study to assess the knowledge and practices regarding Menstrual Hygiene Management and its impact on school absence: exploring the link between menstrual hygiene practices and academic attendance.
Methods: A cross-sectional study on Sudanese doctors used an online survey from October to November 2023. Collaborators disseminated information and Participant Information Sheets, ensuring voluntary participation. Medical students at Ahfad University participated anonymously. The questionnaire covered sociodemographics, education, menstruation hygiene, and school attendance. Feedback improved survey wording. Data collection utilized Google Forms, distributed through social media, with meticulous group verification. IP addresses were not collected for confidentiality. Responses were analyzed with SPSS software. Ethical considerations followed Helsinki Declaration guidelines, obtaining informed consent. CHERRIES guidelines ensured accurate reporting. The study received approval from the Research and Ethics Committee.
Results: In a study of 1560 Sudanese college students, most were urban (84.8%) with an average age of 23.3 years. The majority studied Medicine (83.1%), while 2.2% studied Pharmacy. Many came from high-income families (52.3%), with parents mostly educated (71.5% fathers, 65.6% mothers). Cultural and religious factors affected menstrual hygiene management (MHM), with diverse attitudes observed. Participants generally had good knowledge about MHM but misconceptions persisted. Practices varied, with some challenges reported, yet positive cultural and religious attitudes were prevalent.
Conclusion: The study reveals positive trends in knowledge and practice among participants, with cultural and religious attitudes generally favorable. However, persistent restrictions and misconceptions highlight the need for education and open dialogue to enhance menstrual health management among Sudanese college students.
Keywords: Menstrual Hygiene Management, School Absence, Academic Attendance.
Audience Take Away:
- The audience will gain insights into the knowledge and practices related to MHM among Sudanese college students, including the influence of cultural and religious factors.
- Attendees will learn about the potential impact of MHM practices on school absence, shedding light on the importance of proper menstrual health management for academic attendance.
- The presentation will discuss how cultural and religious beliefs shape attitudes towards MHM, providing valuable context for understanding and addressing menstrual health challenges in diverse communities.
- The findings emphasize the necessity of education and open dialogue to dispel misconceptions and improve menstrual health management among college students in Sudan.
- The research offers practical insights for educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers to develop targeted interventions and support systems that promote better menstrual health practices and contribute to women's empowerment in low-income settings.
