Knowledge of Menstrual Hygiene and Practices Among Adolescent Girls in Primary Schools in Narok South Sub- County, Narok County

Abstract

Background: Menstruation, a natural physiological occurrence, often faces societal stigmas and misconceptions, leading to poor menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls. Limited knowledge about menstruation can result in adverse health outcomes and hinder educational attainment. Objective: This study aimed to examine the understanding and menstrual hygiene practices among adolescents’ girls in Narok South sub-county. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 380 adolescent girls aged 10-14 years from private and public primary schools. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS software. Results: 91.8% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of menstrual hygiene practices. (94.2%) used sanitary pads. 97.6% of participants changed absorbents at school, with three changes being the most common (40.5%). Cleaning genital areas during menstruation was practiced by (97.4%) of respondents, primarily using plain water (50.3%) or soap and water (34.5%).16.7% of the primary schools had dedicated changing rooms for girls and 33.3% had accessible Sanitary Materials. Knowledge level had a varying influence on the menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls. Significant associations were observed between the class of participants (p = .001), age of menarche (p = .004), handwashing practices (p = .000), frequency and materials used for cleaning genitals (p = .000 and p = 0.008, respectively), and the level of knowledge on menstrual hygiene. However, no significant relationships were found between age (p = .361), type of school (p = 0.614), family affordability (p = .129), sources of information (p = .429), or types of sanitary materials used (p = .935) and the level of knowledge. Conclusion: The study found that most participants had good knowledge and practices of menstrual hygiene, yet significant gaps remain in schools for facilities to support menstruation hygiene. Recommendation: Implement comprehensive menstrual hygiene education programs, improve access to menstrual hygiene products, and enhance menstrual hygiene facilities in primary schools.