Menstruation hygiene and related issues in adolescent girls: A brief commentary

Description

Between childhood and adulthood, adolescence is a phase of physiological, psychological, and social transformation. Menstrual difficulties are a common symptom and one of the primary causes of adolescent doctor visits. Therefore, adolescent girls' knowledge of reproductive health, including menstruation, may be incomplete and impacted by sociocultural obstacles. The majority of teenage females in India know nothing about menstruation, reproduction, and sexuality. As menstruation remains a taboo, the culture adheres to numerous myths and prohibitions. During menstruation, poor personal cleanliness and dangerous sanitary circumstances heighten the risk of reproductive tract infections and gynecological issues. In resource-poor environments, where women lack access to basic facilities such as water, bathrooms, and privacy, it is extremely difficult to maintain a high level of hygiene. There is a need to enhance housing conditions in terms of fundamental amenities. Every girl may only be encouraged to use sanitary pads if they are offered at cheap costs. It is urgent that separate teenage gynecological clinics be established. Sensitization and counseling in schools, together with a complete school education program on menarche and menstruation difficulties, may assist girls in coping better and seeking appropriate medical support.
Keywords: Menstrual disorders, Adolescence, Sanitary Pads, Reproductive Health.