Knowledge And Practice of Menstrual Hygiene among Female Undergraduate Students at Redeemer’s University Ede

Menarche is the beginning of menstruation in the life of every girl child, and it has a significant transformation in their reproductive life as they grow up. Globally, menstrual hygiene is a major public health and social issue that needs adequate attention. Inadequate knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene and culturally restrictive practices make menstruation a challenge for women and girls. Knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene are essential to the dignity and well-being of girls and women. The objective is to review the knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene among female undergraduate students at Redeemer’s University Ede, Osun State. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) female respondents from Redeemer’s University were used for the data collection of this study. Based on the study's objectives, descriptive analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25 for the data analysis. This study found that the knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene among female undergraduates at Redeemer’s University is inadequate. Ninety-five (95) respondents do not know the meaning of menarche. Their knowledge is adequate for 67 respondents (55.8%), while 53 respondents (44.2%) do not know about menstrual hygiene. Their practice is sufficient for 89 respondents (74.2%), while 31 respondents (25.8%) lack proper practice. This study concludes that more awareness should be created regarding the knowledge and practice of female undergraduate students in sensitization and enlightenment on menstrual hygiene for females across tertiary institutions. This could also be achieved by adding subjects of this nature into the general studies curriculum that will benefit both male and female students.