Open access journal
Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene Management among Adolescent Girls in Senior Secondary Schools in Anambra State, Nigeria
By C. E. Alagbu and Okenyeka Ujunwa Chijindu.
Abstract
Background
Menstrual hygiene management is an important component of adolescent health and well-being. This study examined knowledge and practices relating to menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls in senior secondary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria, including variations according to age, school location and mothers’ educational level.
Method
The study was guided by eight research questions. A descriptive cross-sectional (survey) research design was adopted. The population comprised 967 adolescent girls in senior secondary schools in the selected educational zones (Awka, Aguata, and Nnewi) in Anambra State. A sample of 97 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique involving simple random, purposive, and stratified proportionate sampling techniques. Data were collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire titled Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene Management (KPMHM). The reliability of the instrument was established through a pilot study involving 20 respondents using Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20) and Cronbach's alpha, which yielded reliability coefficients of 0.97 for knowledge and 0.64 for practice, indicating that the instrument was reliable for the study. Data were analysed using the mean to answer the research questions.
