KNOWLEDGE OF MENSTRUAL HEALTH AMONG STUDENTS IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN IGANDO, LAGOS STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the level of knowledge regarding menstrual health among students in selected secondary schools in Igando, Lagos State. A cross-sectional survey research design was employed to explore students’ comprehension of menstrual disorders, their health-seeking behaviors, and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at enhancing menstrual health education and access to healthcare services. A structured questionnaire was developed and distributed to a sample of 400 respondents, from which 133 fully completed responses were analyzed. Data were processed and examined using SPSS version 27, with a one-sample t-test applied to evaluate the formulated hypotheses. The results indicated that stress, inadequate nutrition, and insufficient menstrual hygiene practices were major factors contributing to menstrual disorders among the students. Although many students possessed a foundational understanding of menstrual health, notable knowledge gaps remained, especially regarding the symptoms and possible complications associated with menstrual disorders. Health-seeking behavior was shaped by various influences, such as fear of stigma, limited access to healthcare providers, and a preference for self-medication and traditional home remedies. The study also determined that incorporating menstrual health education into school curricula, supplying free sanitary products, and enhancing healthcare services for female students represented effective approaches to better menstrual health management. The t-test results demonstrated a statistically significant association between the causes of menstrual disorders and students’ health-seeking behavior, as well as between their knowledge of menstrual disorders and their readiness to pursue medical care. Furthermore, the findings confirmed that strategies including health education and better access to menstrual healthcare had a substantial impact on students’ attitudes and behaviors concerning menstrual health. The t-test estimates reinforced these outcomes, emphasizing the importance of menstrual education and healthcare interventions in achieving improved menstrual health results. In conclusion, although students demonstrated some awareness of menstrual health, persistent misconceptions and insufficient knowledge were evident. Many students were reluctant to seek professional medical help due to stigma and restricted access to medical facilities, highlighting the necessity for focused interventions. Schools are encouraged to embed menstrual health education within their academic programs, while policymakers should give priority to menstrual health awareness campaigns and the provision of sanitary products. The study recommends collaboration among schools, parents, and healthcare professionals to deliver thorough menstrual health education. In addition, government agencies and non-governmental organizations should strive to guarantee the availability of menstrual hygiene products and accessible healthcare services for students. Future studies should investigate the sustained effects of menstrual health education initiatives and healthcare interventions on students’ menstrual health outcomes.

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Menstruation refers to the periodic discharge of blood from the uterus through the cervix and vagina, commonly known as a “period.” It takes place from puberty until menopause. Regular monthly menstrual periods represent a standard aspect of a woman’s reproductive life. Menstruation plays a vital role in shedding and renewing the uterine lining to prepare for potential pregnancy. The degeneration and expulsion of the endometrial lining through the vagina at regular intervals constitutes the menstrual cycle. This cycle supplies essential hormones that support overall health and prepares the body for pregnancy each month. A menstrual cycle is measured from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. The typical menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, though it can vary from 21 to 35 days in adults and from 21 to 45 days in younger teenagers [Bayer 2020]. The following sections will explore this physiological process and its related complications in depth, including traditional methods for alleviating discomfort, with emphasis on commonly used herbs and home remedies.

The median age of menarche is 12.9 years. The length of a normal menstrual cycle varies considerably. Normal cycles are defined by a length of 28 days (± 7 days), a flow duration of 4 days (± 2 days), and blood loss of 40 mL (± 20 mL). The average volume of menstrual blood loss is 43 mL, ranging normally from 20 to 80 mL.

Irregular or abnormal menstrual patterns frequently occur during the first two years after menarche. Cycle length variability is greater in adolescence than in adulthood; therefore, greater irregularity is considered acceptable provided there is no significant anemia or heavy bleeding.

In Nigeria, menstruation usually begins between the ages of 9 and 16 (Moronkola 2022). Nevertheless, cultural taboos, insufficient education, and poor communication regarding menstruation lead to inadequate understanding and management of menstrual disorders among adolescents (Aniebue, 2021). Numerous young girls encounter difficulties obtaining accurate information on menstrual health and often fail to pursue suitable medical assistance when facing menstrual problems (Omigbodun & Omigbodun, 2024).

Lagos State, one of Nigeria’s most densely populated areas, features a varied population with differing socio-economic conditions. In Igando, a suburban community in Lagos, the circumstances are similar. Many secondary school students possess insufficient knowledge about menstrual disorders, which impacts their health-seeking behavior. This knowledge deficit can result in untreated menstrual conditions, influencing academic achievement, mental well-being, and overall quality of life (Nwankwo, 2021).

The health challenges faced by students require particular attention. Menstrual disorders such as amenorrhea, abnormal or excessive uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and premenstrual syndrome are especially prevalent among adolescent girls. While menstrual irregularities may be typical in the initial years following menarche, pathological conditions demand timely and appropriate medical attention. This study examines the menstrual cycle and associated disorders. A solid understanding of the normal menstrual cycle is essential for the effective management of these conditions

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Menstrual disorders represent a frequent issue among students and often cause anxiety for both the affected individuals and their families. Common menstrual disorders in students include amenorrhea, abnormal or excessive uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and premenstrual syndrome.

Cycles are considered abnormal if they exceed 8 to 10 days in length or involve blood loss greater than 80 mL, particularly after the first two years following menarche. Although quantifying blood loss is challenging, soaking more than 25 pads or 30 tampons during a single menstrual period is generally regarded as abnormal.

This study addresses the following research problem: What is the level of knowledge about menstrual disorders among secondary school students in Igando, Lagos State, and how does this knowledge affect their health-seeking behavior?

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the menstrual cycle and its associated disorders. Specifically, the study aimed to:

1. Examine the causes of menstrual health-seeking behavior among secondary school students in Igando, Lagos State.

2. Assess the knowledge of menstrual disorders among secondary school students in Igando, Lagos State.

3. Evaluate the health-seeking behavior of students when they encounter menstrual disorders.

4. Propose strategies for enhancing menstrual health education and access to healthcare services for students in Igando, Lagos State.

1.4 Research Questions

The study seeks to address the following research questions:

1. What are the causes of menstrual disorders among students in selected secondary schools in Igando, Lagos State?

2. What level of knowledge regarding menstrual disorders do students in the study area possess?

3. How do students seek healthcare when they experience menstrual disorders?

4. What strategies can be adopted to improve menstrual health education and healthcare access for students?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses will guide this study:

H1: There is no significant relationship between students’ causes of menstrual disorders and their health-seeking behavior.

H2: There is no significant relationship between students’ knowledge of menstrual disorders and their health-seeking behavior.

H3: There is no significant relationship between students’ seeking of health care for menstrual disorders.

H4: There is no significant relationship between strategies implemented for improving menstrual health and their health-seeking behavior.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study focuses on the menstrual cycle and its associated health aspects. It will benefit the female population by aiding in the early detection of menstrual cycle disorders, which can be identified through changes such as reduced blood flow or extended duration of flow (number of days).

The study will also serve researchers and academics by providing a useful reference material for investigations related to this topic. Gaining insight into students’ knowledge and health-seeking behavior concerning menstrual disorders can help shape public health programs designed to strengthen reproductive health education and services in Lagos State.

The outcomes can assist educators and policymakers in developing suitable menstrual health education initiatives that consider students’ specific needs and cultural contexts. Recognizing obstacles to healthcare access can facilitate the creation of measures to enhance healthcare delivery for adolescents dealing with menstrual disorders. By increasing knowledge and awareness of menstrual health, the study aims to enable young women to better manage their reproductive health and obtain proper care when necessary.

1.7 Definition of Terms

Menstrual Disorders: Conditions that disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, including dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, and irregular menstruation.

Health-Seeking Behavior: The actions and choices individuals make to obtain medical care or treatment when facing health concerns.

Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstruation that may disrupt normal daily activities.

Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation for one or more menstrual cycles.

Menorrhagia: Abnormally heavy or extended menstrual bleeding.

Reproductive Health: A condition of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all aspects related to the reproductive system.