Abstract / Summary
Menstruation is a natural physiological process; however, social taboos, misconceptions, and inadequate information regarding menstrual hygiene among female students persist in Nepal. Poor knowledge of menstrual hygiene and insufficient menstrual self-care can lead to reproductive tract infections and disrupt women’s daily activities, well-being, and schooling. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the level of menstrual self-hygiene knowledge and practice among female students at Mahendra Ratna Campus, Tahachal, Tribhuvan University, and to examine their relationship with socio-demographic factors. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2025 to January 2026 among 258 female university students selected through two-stage random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire that included socio-demographic characteristics, menstrual history, knowledge of menstrual hygiene practices, menstrual behaviors, and menstruation-related problems, including absenteeism. Knowledge was categorized as good (score ≥ 8), acceptable (4–7), or poor (≤ 4); practice was categorized as good (5–7) or unsatisfactory (0–4). Chi-square tests and independent t-tests were used to examine associations, with statistical significance set at p < 0.5). The study revealed that 61.2% of students had acceptable knowledge, 36% had poor knowledge, and only 2.7% had good knowledge regarding menstrual self-hygiene. Although menstrual cycle regularity was high among students, poor menstrual physiology knowledge and poor menstrual hygiene practices, such as irregular changing of sanitary materials (only 62.0% always changed pads at night) and limited physical activity during menstruation, were prevalent. Over half (54.3%) of students missed at least one class due to menstruation in the past three months, primarily due to pain (68.4%). Mother’s occupation ( p = 0.022), family monthly income ( p = 0.007), and prior information before menarche ( p = 0.006) were significantly associated with menstrual hygiene knowledge. Knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene among students were found to be suboptimal, with over one-third having poor knowledge and three-fifths demonstrating unsatisfactory practices. Campus-based menstrual health information campaigns and teachers’ participation are essential, in addition to family-based information regarding menstruation.