Menstrual Hygiene Practices Among Women of Reproductive Age Group in a Selected Ready-Made Garment (Rmg) Factory in Chittagong

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural phenomenon. There is a negative inference in many communities of Bangladesh about menstruation and women considered to be shameful. Consequently related health problem is often hidden and ignored. Hygiene management during menstruation has not been effectively addressed in the reproductive health sectors of Bangladesh. A cross sectional study was carried out to determine the menstrual hygiene management among reproductive age women of selected RMG factory in Chittagong. 150 study participants were selected conveniently. Data were collected by face to interview. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to get information on menstrual hygiene practices. Mean age of menarche of the respondents was 13.33 years and 63% knew about menstruation before menarche. The major source of information for the respondents was their mother (88.30%). Only 38% used sanitary pads and 52.67% used old cloths as absorbent material during menstruation. The most frequent cause of not using sanitary pad was high cost (37.84%). Majority (60.81%) respondents dry their absorbent inside the house without sunlight. Restriction of religious practices was faced by 96.66% of the respondents. Bulk of the respondents do not maintain good hygienic practices during menstruation. Socio-cultural factor found responsible for this poor menstrual hygiene practice. Proper Awareness program of good menstrual practices is of utmost importance for this vulnerable group.