Study of Menstrual Hygiene Practices among the Women of Reproductive Age Group in Sangrur Village, Pune-Maharashtra

Abstract

Menstrual hygiene is a concept of deep concern as; unhygienic practices can lead to health problems like reproductive tract infections and their complications. There is a definite difference between the menstrual hygiene practices among urban and rural women, influenced by literacy, awareness, accessibility, and exposure. This community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in Sangrur village, Pune using a questionnaire and personal interview method. It was observed that 70% of the population used cloth during menstruation; irrespective of that 83% were aware of sanitary napkins. The women’s attitude of resistance to change and lack of information about the importance of using sanitary napkins were found to be the reasons for not shifting to sanitary napkins. Sanitary product used and period hygiene practices adopted by the women of Sangrur village, Pune is unsatisfactory. Improving the level of health education can go a long way in enhancing menstrual hygiene practices.