Perception, Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene in Kohistani Women

Abstract

Background: Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is an important issue for the developing world.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to menstrual hygiene among women in Kohistan, Pakistan.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study which was conducted with 196 female participants, who were between 18 to 50 years of age. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing menstrual hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Socio demographic factors such as age, gestational age, residence status, gravida, parity, education, and occupational status were also recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using STATA version 18. Chi-square tests were used to examine associations between socio demographic variables and MHM outcomes.

Results: The study found that about 98% of participants had poor knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding menstrual hygiene. Only 1.53% demonstrated good knowledge, and similarly, only 1.03% had an adequate attitude and practice towards menstrual hygiene. No significant associations were observed between socio demographic factors such as age, gestational age, residence status, gravida, and parity with menstrual hygiene outcomes. However, occupational and educational status was significantly associated with improved knowledge, attitudes, and practices (p < 0.0001). These findings suggest that education and employment are crucial factors influencing menstrual hygiene outcomes among Kohistani women living in Pakistan. .

Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices among Kohistani women.

Keywords: Menstrual hygiene management, knowledge, attitudes, practices, sociodemographic factors, rural women, Kohistan, educational status, occupational status, Pakistan.