Abstract

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE REGARDING MENSTRUAL HYGIENE AMONG WOMEN IN NATORE, BANGLADESH

Mst. Nahid Akter, Md. A. Razzak, Md. Sharif Mollah, Mohammad Abu Bin Nyeem*

Abstract

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is a fundamental component of women’s reproductive health and well-being. In Bangladesh, menstruation remains associated with cultural taboos, misinformation, and inadequate access to menstrual hygiene resources, particularly among young women. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding menstrual hygiene among female students of Nawab Siraj-Ud-Dowla College, Natore, Bangladesh. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March to November 2025 among 100 female students aged 16–25 years. Participants were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, menstrual knowledge, hygiene practices, attitudes, and menstrual-related experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS. Most participants had heard about menstruation before menarche (61%), and mothers were the primary source of information (71%). Although 67% reported knowledge of menstrual hygiene practices and 74% considered menstruation a normal physiological process, misconceptions persisted, with 87% initially associating menstruation with a curse of God. Sanitary pads were used by 55% of respondents, while 25% used clean cloth. Good hygiene practices were common: 91% reported changing absorbents every 4–6 hours, 95% washed their hands after changing absorbents, and 92% disposed of used absorbents in dustbins. Menstrual symptoms affected daily life, with 63% reporting disruption of routine activities and 30% missing college during menstruation. Female students demonstrated moderate knowledge and generally positive menstrual hygiene practices; however, significant misconceptions and educational gaps remain. Strengthening menstrual health education, improving access to sanitary products, and providing supportive sanitation facilities are essential for promoting safe and stigma-free menstrual hygiene management among college-going women in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Menstrual Hygiene, Natore.