A quantitative study to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of menstrual health hygiene among female LJMU students

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural and essential part of the female reproductive system, that goes beyond its biology to impact upon various aspects of a woman's life. It is a physiological process that not only signifies reproductive health but also carries psychological, emotional, cultural, and social significance. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of menstrual health hygiene among female LJMU students. It will also compare the relationship between their knowledge, attitudes, and practices and demographic characteristics. To gather the data for this study, a quantitative research design was employed using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed on Canvas, with the help of a gatekeeper. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, and Chi squared tests were used to measure relationships between variables. The sample for this study consisted of 57 female LJMU students. Overall female LJMU students possess some accurate knowledge about
menstruation including the origin of menstrual blood, average menstrual cycle, and average menstrual bleeding duration. Participants revealed family, friends, their GP and the internet were their main source of information about menstruation and generally women felt able to discuss menstruation with their family, friends, and GP. In terms of attitudes, the participants described menstruation with words such as ‘bloody’, ‘messy’, ‘dirty’, ‘pain’, ‘inconvenient’ and ‘mood swings’ and while some students exhibited positive attitudes and openness towards menstruation and menstrual health, others expressed feelings of embarrassment, shame, and discomfort. The study found that younger women exhibited a more positive attitude towards menstruation, revealing excitement when they had their first period and not allowing menstruation to interfere with their usual activities. The study also found that participants consider factors such as comfort, price, easily disposable and quality/absorbency when choosing menstrual products. These results can contribute to the public health evidence base on menstruation and menstrual health for university students in the UK. The study recommends future studies to be conducted to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of menstruation among women in the UK. This includes the intersectionality of menstrual health hygiene with factors such as socioeconomic status, and cultural background. The study also recommends educational initiatives around menstruation for all genders to promote inclusivity, foster empathy and remove stigma.