Association between Menstrual Hygiene Management Practices and Lower Reproductive Tract Infections Among Women Aged 15–49 in Karachi: A Comparison of Sanitary Pads and Cloth Users

Background: This study aimed to assess the association between menstrual hygiene management (MHM) practices and symptoms of lower reproductive tract infections (LRTIs) among women aged 15–49 who use either sanitary pads or cloth, attending selected family health centers in Karachi. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2022 to June 2023, involving 487 women aged 15–49. Data on sociodemographic, MHM practices, and LRTI symptoms were collected using a structured questionnaire. Nonrandom, purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from 12 family health centers in Karachi. Results: The majority of participants (75.4%) were aged 25–49 years, with 51.0% using cloth and 49.0% using sanitary pads. Overall, 49.9% reported using appropriate MHM materials, including sanitary pads. Sanitary pad users were 0.644 times less likely to report LRTI symptoms (95% CI: 0.447–0.929; p = 0.018). Additionally, those who changed pads or cloth after more than eight hours were 2.008 times more likely to develop LRTI symptoms (95% CI: 1.335–3.005). Other factors such as prolonged menstrual blood flow, frequency of material change, bathing practices, and use of underwear during menstruation were associated with LRTIs. Conclusion: The study underscores that 49.9% of participants reported using appropriate MHM materials, with sanitary pad use being protective against LRTIs. The findings emphasize the role of hygiene practices, including material type, change frequency, bathing, and underwear use, in mitigating LRTIs among women of reproductive age.