Evaluating a school-based educational intervention on boys’ and girls’ menstrual health knowledge and attitudes

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Objective: Menstrual health is essential for adolescent well-being, yet boys’ and girls’ knowledge about menstruation often remains limited. Stigma, misconceptions, and the lack of formal education may discourage help-seeking and reinforce taboos and restrictions. This study evaluated a school-based educational intervention designed to improve menstrual health knowledge and attitudes among high school students. Design and setting: This quasi-experimental pre–post study involved a programme consisting of two interactive sessions: the first delivered to mixed-sex groups to build foundational knowledge and address stigma, and a second for girls only focusing on symptom management and strategies to access healthcare. Methods: Pre- and post-intervention self-administered questionnaires assessing menstrual knowledge and attitudes were completed before the first session and 1 week after the second session. Data from 113 girls and 37 boys were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and paired-sample t -tests, as appropriate. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to verify the factor structure of the original and adapted versions of the Menstrual Attitude Questionnaire. Results: Knowledge scores increased significantly among girls following the intervention, whereas the gains observed among boys were not statistically significant. Results showed significant improvements in boys’ perceptions of menstruation as a natural process, and girls were less likely to deny any effects of menstruation. These findings suggest that interactive, inclusive menstrual education can positively shape knowledge and attitudes. Conclusion: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how school-based, gender-inclusive programmes reduce stigma, increase knowledge, and support adolescent menstrual health. Future studies are needed to address sustained changes and to optimise the use of gender-inclusive approaches.

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  • Research Article
  • 10.1093/ijpp/riaf093.111
(ID: 314) Menstrual health in women aged 18–25 in the UK: a qualitative study on the potential role of community pharmacy
  • Nov 7, 2025
  • International Journal of Pharmacy Practice
  • C O’Day + 4 more

Introduction Despite the rising profile of women’s health, menstrual health remains under-researched and under-integrated in community pharmacy sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in the UK [1]. Menstruation affects over 800 million individuals globally at any one time [2], yet limited UK-based literature explores community pharmacy-led interventions in this area. This study aimed to explore the physical, emotional, and knowledge-based dimensions of menstrual health among young women and assess the potential role of community pharmacy in providing accessible, non-judgmental menstrual health support. Aim To identify perceived benefits and barriers to integrating menstrual health into UK community pharmacy SRH services, and to explore the menstrual health experiences of final-year female pharmacy students. Methodology A qualitative study was conducted with ten final-year female MPharm students at the University of Birmingham, recruited using purposeful snowball sampling [3] via social media. Participants completed an anonymous demographic survey followed by a ninety-minute, in-person focus group. The discussion was recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework [4] to produce six key themes from initial codes. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Birmingham School of Pharmacy Safety and Ethics Subcommittee (MP2425 012R1). Written and verbal informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results Survey responses indicated that 90% of participants experienced menstrual symptoms that significantly impacted their daily lives. Six key themes were identified: 1) reliance on other women for information rather than healthcare professionals, 2) cultural and social stigma surrounding menstruation, 3) lack of formal education in pharmacy curricula and among male professionals, 4) perceived inaccessibility and underutilisation of community pharmacy services for menstrual health, 5) normalisation and underreporting of symptoms, and 6) the influence of diet, stress, and exercise on menstrual wellbeing. Participants viewed community pharmacists as well-positioned to provide accessible, local, and trusted menstrual health services, particularly through integration into existing SRH frameworks such as Umbrella [5]. However, concerns were raised regarding funding, pharmacy professional training, gender-related barriers, and public awareness. Discussion The findings reveal a significant knowledge gap and unmet need in menstrual health education, access, and support for young women in the UK. Community pharmacies were recognised as potential providers of holistic, culturally sensitive menstrual health services. Integrating menstrual health into SRH services could reduce stigma, facilitate earlier intervention, and alleviate pressure on GPs. Expanding undergraduate pharmacy education and subsidised training for pharmacists may enhance confidence and service delivery. Study limitations include the small, homogenous sample and focus on healthcare students. Further research is required to explore broader public perspectives and pilot menstrual health interventions in community pharmacy settings.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 4
  • 10.1371/journal.pone.0313422
Effectiveness of menstrual hygiene management training to enhance knowledge, attitude, and practice among adolescents in Sindhupalchowk, Nepal.
  • Jan 7, 2025
  • PloS one
  • Swastika Shrestha + 8 more

Menstrual Health (MH) knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) are highly affected by access to information regarding menstruation. Despite being included in the school curriculum, Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education is often not delivered in practice. School-based educational interventions have been shown to be effective in promoting MH. A school-based study was conducted in Indrawati rural municipality of Sindhupalchowk district in Nepal. 427 participants (175 boys and 252 girls), aged 11-13, completed a questionnaire evaluating MH KAP before receiving a structured training module on MH provided by experienced trainers from Putali Nepal using the Menstrupedia tool. The questionnaire was repeated one month after the training. Pre and post intervention scores were compared to determine the effect of the intervention. Focus group discussions were also conducted to understand the perceptions of participants toward SRH teaching. Association of independent socio-demographic with dependent variables knowledge and attitude towards menstrual health were analyzed using MANOVA test. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the median outcome of the pre and post-test attitude and knowledge. The maximum possible score was 6 for MH knowledge. The total attitude score ranged 14 to 70. The median knowledge score increased by 1 point (p = <0.001) and the median attitude score by 5 points (p = <0.001), one month after delivery of the intervention. Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion, female gender, higher father's literacy, and mothers in an informal occupation on multivariate analysis. Higher attitude scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion while lower attitude scores were associated with a mother in an informal occupation. The Menstrupedia comic educational intervention improved knowledge and attitude towards menstruation among Nepali adolescents. A scale-up of the Menstrupedia based intervention would significantly change knowledge and attitude towards menstruation in Nepali adolescents.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 1
  • 10.54111/0001/iiii2
Culturally Inclusive and Gender Sensitive Menstrual Health Education: Nursing and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organizational Partnership
  • Jan 1, 2024
  • HPHR Journal
  • Cassie Hummel + 3 more

Background Worldwide period poverty results in gynecological infections and poor outcomes increased menorrhagia, or infections (candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis). Immigrants and refugees have minimal menstrual health education due to cultural taboos, inability to afford feminine hygiene products, and inappropriate use of menstrual reusable products or previous sanitization teachings. The Immigrant &amp; Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) needed evidence-based interventions to reduce period poverty via a culturally sensitive, and gender-affirming menstrual health hygiene program. The purpose of the menstrual health dignity scholarly project intervention was to increase knowledge, comfort, and confidence of community health staff educators (CHSEs) to provide effective client teaching Methods The Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Model, and popular education interactive strategies guided the academic-community scholarly project partnership. Developed a cross-sectoral academic-community team partnership with CHSEs buy in; modified teaching in 2 PDSA cycles (100% attendance of at least 2 sessions); and used Power Points for lesson content, case studies, and technology to reinforce learning and menstrual cup and health brochure to increase CHSEs’ knowledge. Results Questionnaire scores showed increases of: knowledge (96% in at least 3 categories), confidence (100%) with increased capacity to provide appropriate menstrual health hygiene teaching, products, handouts, and guidance based on appropriate assessments. The results showed 92.3% overall positive comments about the menstrual health education provided including expressing enthusiasm for teaching menstrual health to all genders. Overall, 85.7% of people agreed they would use the information learned in this project for future work and found the education valuable. Conclusion The addition of menstrual health trainings with interactive popular education increased CHSEs’ knowledge, comfort, and confidence. Sustainability efforts included recorded lesson content education and encouragement to provide the menstrual cup and health brochure to refugee families upon agency admission.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 8
  • 10.1093/eurpub/ckab165.552
Taboos and Myths as a mediator of the Relationship between Menstrual Practices and Menstrual Health
  • Oct 20, 2021
  • European Journal of Public Health
  • K Babbar

Background There is a piece of growing evidence that associates menstrual practices with menstrual health. But menstruation has always been accompanied by various taboos and myths. Findings from qualitative studies have highlighted that these taboos and myths impact the psychosocial outcomes of the menstruators, ultimately affecting their menstrual health. However, no quantitative study has explored this link between menstrual practices and menstrual health. Thus, as a part of this study, we try to understand the role of taboos and myths as a mediator in explaining the relationship between menstrual practices and menstrual health. Methods The study uses the data from a cross-sectional survey of 683 active menstruators from India. First, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to develop and validate a new scale on Menstrual Health. Next, structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized relationship between menstrual practice and menstrual health. Results A clean one-factor scale was observed for the Menstrual Health scale using EFA and CFA with the fit measures (CFI= 0.99; RMSEA=0.059; SRMR=0.017; GFI=0.994). Data analysis, performed using structural equation modeling (CFI= 0.952; RMSEA=0.044; SRMR=0.047; GFI=0.959), revealed that the taboos and myths fully mediate the relationship between Menstrual Practices and Menstrual Health. The indirect effect reveals menstruators with perceptions of taboos and myths are more likely to have poor menstrual health. The ratio of the indirect effect to the total overall effect is 0.506. Conclusions Taboos and Myths are detrimental to the menstrual health of the menstruators. Different bodies like the government, policymakers, and NGOs should address this issue by conducting education and awareness programs for the menstruators, specifically targeting the socio-cultural aspects of menstruation to improve the menstrual practices and dissolve the taboos and myths around menstruation. Key messages Menstrual practices and taboos and myths are significant determinants for menstrual health. Educational interventions must be done to promote awareness around the myths and best menstrual practices that society can adopt.

  • Research Article
  • 10.64252/4yz5vg37
Challenges and Coping Strategies in Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Among Girl Children With Hearing Impairment: A Systematic Review
  • Jun 17, 2025
  • International Journal of Environmental Sciences
  • Dr Rajiv Ranjan + 2 more

Menstrual health and hygiene is an important element of a female’s well-being; however, it is often overlooked, particularly among girls with disabilities, with those who are hearing impaired being especially vulnerable. Hearing impairment also called as invisible disability due to the lack of visible symptoms, it is marginalized in communities and neglected by the policy makers. The females with hearing impairment face communication challenges, cultural taboos and a lack of tailored education which results in a gap in understanding and managing appropriate menstrual health and hygiene. This study deals with the challenges and coping strategies experienced by girls with hearing impairment and caregivers regarding menstrual health and hygiene. The objectives of the study include 1) To examine the challenges faced by girls with hearing impairment in managing menstrual health and hygiene, and 2) To identify the challenges faced and strategies employed by caregivers in supporting girls with hearing impairment in menstrual health and hygiene management. The study adopts a systematic review approach by drawing on from existing interdisciplinary literature, including public health, disability studies and inclusive education, to explore the perspectives of caregivers and girls with hearing impairment related to menstrual health and hygiene. Eligible studies were gathered from databases like MEDLINE, PubMed, Global Health, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, DSpace, etc. Data from 21 studies were extracted, organized, and thematically synthesized to highlight the key challenges and strategies reported across studies. The findings reported that girls with hearing impairment and their caregivers faced challenges like communication barrier, lack of information, social stigma, vulnerability, inadequate WASH facilities, and lack of support. The study reveals a major gap in the preparedness and support of caregivers and girls with hearing-impairment, which highlights the need for an inclusive, culturally sensitive interventions. The study recommended for inclusive menstrual health education designed specifically for catering the needs of differently-able females.

  • Research Article
  • 10.3389/frph.2026.1717803
Provision of menstrual products lowers school absenteeism in adolescent girls in coastal Kenya: findings from a quasi experimental study.
  • Feb 17, 2026
  • Frontiers in reproductive health
  • Lindah Sanyanda + 9 more

Despite global recognition of menstrual health as a public health priority, challenges in menstrual hygiene management (MHM) continue to affect adolescent girls' education in low- and middle-income countries. This study investigated knowledge, and perceptions on menstrual issues and the association of MHM product provision on school absenteeism among adolescent girls in Kilifi South Sub-County, in coastal Kenya. A mixed-methods design was implemented among 300 high school girls aged between 14 and 18 years in five secondary schools. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess MHM knowledge, menstrual practices, and school absenteeism. Focus group discussions were employed to explore perceptions regarding menstruation, product preferences, and challenges encountered during menses. Schools were randomly assigned to one of five study arms: a control group, non-reusable pads, reusable pads, menstrual cups, or all products with a choice option. Binary logistic regression with backward stepwise elimination method was used to determine factors associated with MHM knowledge. Kruskal-Wallis for inter-arm comparisons and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test for within-arm comparisons were used to evaluate changes in absenteeism. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti software. In all schools, most of the participants demonstrated good MHM knowledge. Most of the participants use disposable sanitary pads, but financial constraints limit consistent access. Perceptions of menstruation were deeply influenced by cultural taboos and misinformation, contributing to stigma and influencing choice of menstrual product. Participants expressed a strong preference for disposable pads due to their ease of use and comfort, although financial constraints often necessitated the use of cheaper alternative products. Our intervention demonstrated significant reductions in menstruation-related absenteeism across all study groups. At baseline, the median menses-related school absenteeism score for all groups was 1 (IQR: 0-2), significantly decreasing to 0 (IQR: 0-1) (p < 0.001) at endline. Within study arms, significant declines in absenteeism were observed in the control group (median 1 to 0; p = 0.012), menstrual cup group (median 1 to 0; p = 0.041), disposable pads group (median 1 to 0; p < 0.001), and reusable cloth group (median 1 to 0; p < 0.001). The findings indicate that effective menstrual health management significantly improves school attendance among adolescent girls. Beyond product provision, addressing knowledge gaps, pain management, psychological support, and enhanced WASH infrastructure is essential. Increased awareness and open discussions about menstruation can also lead to positive outcomes. We recommend integrating comprehensive menstrual education into school curriculum, establishing sustainable menstrual product programs with complementary resources, and upgrading school WASH facilities to support female students.

  • Research Article
  • 10.1371/journal.pone.0313422.r004
Effectiveness of menstrual hygiene management training to enhance knowledge, attitude, and practice among adolescents in Sindhupalchowk, Nepal
  • Jan 7, 2025
  • PLOS ONE
  • Swastika Shrestha + 11 more

BackgroundMenstrual Health (MH) knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) are highly affected by access to information regarding menstruation. Despite being included in the school curriculum, Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education is often not delivered in practice. School-based educational interventions have been shown to be effective in promoting MH.MethodsA school-based study was conducted in Indrawati rural municipality of Sindhupalchowk district in Nepal. 427 participants (175 boys and 252 girls), aged 11–13, completed a questionnaire evaluating MH KAP before receiving a structured training module on MH provided by experienced trainers from Putali Nepal using the Menstrupedia tool. The questionnaire was repeated one month after the training. Pre and post intervention scores were compared to determine the effect of the intervention. Focus group discussions were also conducted to understand the perceptions of participants toward SRH teaching. Association of independent socio-demographic with dependent variables knowledge and attitude towards menstrual health were analyzed using MANOVA test. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the median outcome of the pre and post-test attitude and knowledge. The maximum possible score was 6 for MH knowledge. The total attitude score ranged 14 to 70.ResultsThe median knowledge score increased by 1 point (p = <0.001) and the median attitude score by 5 points (p = <0.001), one month after delivery of the intervention. Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion, female gender, higher father’s literacy, and mothers in an informal occupation on multivariate analysis. Higher attitude scores were significantly associated with Hindu religion while lower attitude scores were associated with a mother in an informal occupation.ConclusionThe Menstrupedia comic educational intervention improved knowledge and attitude towards menstruation among Nepali adolescents. A scale-up of the Menstrupedia based intervention would significantly change knowledge and attitude towards menstruation in Nepali adolescents.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 17
  • 10.1177/0971521518808104
Constrained Choices? Menstrual Health and Hygiene Needs Among Adolescents in Mumbai Slums
  • Feb 1, 2019
  • Indian Journal of Gender Studies
  • Arundati Muralidharan

Menstruation, an essential and healthy biological function, is cloaked in a culture of silence. Sociocultural norms at the family and community level play a pivotal role in shaping how young unmarried women understand and manage their monthly period. Less is known about how unmarried young women living in low-income urban areas in India seek help for their menstrual needs. This qualitative study seeks to understand how young unmarried women (aged 15–24) living in a slum settlement understand menstruation and perceive menstrual problems, and identifies factors that influence their help-seeking behaviour for menstrual needs and problems. It also proposes recommendations for national health programmes addressing menstrual health and hygiene. The findings echo previous research findings emphasising young unmarried women’s low levels of awareness and misconceptions about menstruation. These girls perceived menstrual problems as a key concern, as it significantly interfered with their daily routine and caused emotional distress. Young women’s ability and willingness to seek help to address menstrual needs is influenced by a culture of silence that surrounds menstruation, excessive scrutiny and blaming by the community, and restrictions on their mobility and interactions with peers. The findings underscore the role of mothers as gatekeepers who greatly influence young women’s perceptions of menstruation and menstrual problems and their ability to seek help. Existing interventions need to be expanded to address young women’s need for emotional and social support, and to involve significant gatekeepers such as mothers in promoting the health and well-being of young unmarried women in slum communities. Intervention strategies should be expanded to enhance the capacity of mothers to recognise, understand and address their teenage daughters’ needs for information, emotional support and access to essential clinical and social services.

  • Research Article
  • 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_abstract63
IJCM_63A: Knowledge and perceptions of menstruation among school going adolescent girls in urban area of Kakinada – A mixed method
  • Apr 1, 2024
  • Indian Journal of Community Medicine
  • Eathalapaka Priyanka + 2 more

Background: Menstruation is a physiological process that all women go through. Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) is essential to the well-being and empowerment of women and adolescent girls but appropriate MHH is hampered by taboos, secrecy and even stigma. The GOI/GOAP have launched several initiatives such as Health Education sessions in schools and celebration of menstrual hygiene week. Despite several initiatives, studies in India reveal that gaps exist in knowledge, perceptions and practices related to MHH Objectives: 1. To Assess the Knowledge of Menstruation among adolescents. 2. To explore the Perceptions about menstruation among school going adolescents. Methodology: A Mixed Method Study was conducted among school going adolescent girls and the study Participants were selected by convenient sampling technique during October 2023. Qualitative data was collected from adolescents by conducting 2 Focus group discussions (FGD) with 20 adolescent girls in 2groups and Quantitative data collected by using Pretested Semi Structured questionnaire from 50 students who are in class 10th of P.R.G. Girls high school Kakinada, after obtaining subjects assent and informed consent from the Parents/guardians of the adolescents. Prior approval from Institutional ethics committee was taken. Data was entered and analysed using MS Word, MS Excel &amp; SPSS 21. Results: 88% have fair knowledge about menstruation. Mothers were the main source of information and advice regarding menstruation. FGDs revealed that the adolescents face stigma, embarrassment and hardships during menstruation both at school &amp; home. Conclusion: Taboos, stigma and embarrassment and hindering the adolescents from appropriate MHM practices. Strategic approach towards menstruation would help to promote well - being of the adolescents.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 11
  • 10.1080/03630240903238636
Menstrual Problems and Health Seeking in Sri Lanka
  • Oct 19, 2009
  • Women & Health
  • D K N N Hemachandra + 1 more

Menstruation is associated with some morbidity, although it is a normal physiological event. In this article, we draw on qualitative research conducted in Sri Lanka in 2006–2007, which included eight key informant interviews with healthcare providers, six focus group discussions with eight women in each, and five case studies. We describe and analyze women's perceptions of menstruation and menstrual problems, their help-seeking behaviors to reduce these health problems, and the consequences of them on their lives. The majority of women perceived menstruation as a physiological process and related problems to changes in hormone levels, pathological conditions of the uterus, and the side effects of contraceptive methods. Menstrual problems significantly affected their daily activities, mental well-being, social life, and sexual life, but few sought medical advice to resolve these problems. Implications of the findings included the need for health care providers and educators to provide accurate information on menstruation to girls and women to enable them to identify normal variation of menstruation and to take appropriate action regarding health care.

  • Research Article
  • 10.47772/ijriss.2024.8080253
Social Awareness for Women’s Health: An Endline Study in Gazaria, Munshiganj, Bangladesh
  • Jan 1, 2024
  • International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science
  • Lulu Al-Marjan + 4 more

Background: The “Social Awareness for Women’s Health: Gazaria Pilot” project aimed to address menstrual health awareness and distribute free sanitary napkins in the Gazaria region. This endline survey evaluates the project’s impact on menstrual health practices, knowledge, and socio-cultural barriers among women and girls. Objective: Baseline data highlighted critical challenges, including limited awareness about menstrual hygiene, widespread use of non-hygienic materials such as old cloths, and significant emotional distress associated with menstruation. Access to reliable menstrual health information was predominantly through informal channels, with cultural taboos further exacerbating the menstrual health crisis. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from community members participating in the Gazaria Pilot project. Surveys were conducted to assess changes in health behaviors and attitudes, while interviews provided insights into community perceptions and experiences with project interventions. Findings: Following the project’s implementation, there was a notable improvement in menstrual hygiene practices. The use of disposable sanitary napkins increased from 5.99% at baseline to 15.36% at endline, reflecting enhanced access and acceptance of sanitary products. Additionally, knowledge about the risks of unclean menstrual practices and the benefits of personal hygiene saw significant gains, with awareness rising from 55.5% to 72.66% and from 62.0% to 75.78%, respectively. Menstruation has decreased emotional reactions, promoting mental well-being, but challenges persist like reliance on old cloths, lack of medical advice, and socio-cultural taboos affecting health behaviors. Conclusion: The project emphasizes the need for community-based interventions and sustained engagement to improve menstrual health outcomes in Gazaria, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 5
  • 10.1186/s12903-025-06028-9
Effectiveness of a school-based educational intervention on oral health knowledge, attitudes, practices, and self-efficacy among female secondary school students: a randomized controlled trial
  • Apr 24, 2025
  • BMC Oral Health
  • Akram Mehtari Taheri + 3 more

IntroductionOral health is crucial during adolescence, yet many young individuals engage in suboptimal oral hygiene behaviors, contributing to oral health issues. While genetics may have some influence, lifestyle factors such as diet, preventive care, and oral hygiene practices play a more critical role in the development of dental caries. The World Health Organization recognizes oral health as a lifelong cornerstone of overall well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a school-based educational intervention for improving oral health knowledge, attitudes, practices, and self-efficacy among female secondary school students in Kashan, Iran.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2023 with 80 female students aged 12 years from two public schools at Kashan. The participants were selected via cluster sampling and randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 40) or the control group (n = 40). Data were collected at baseline, one month postintervention, and three months postintervention via a standardized questionnaire administered to both groups. The intervention consisted of four weekly 90-minute educational sessions led by a dentist and a health education specialist, with a focus on oral health knowledge, attitudes, practices, and self-efficacy. Additionally, the intervention group received a digital educational booklet, while parents were provided with a checklist to monitor their children’s tooth brushing and flossing behaviors. The control group did not receive any educational intervention or a checklist for tracking oral hygiene behaviors during the study period. Dental plaque levels were assessed via plaque-disclosing tablets (PDTs) at baseline and three months postintervention. Data analysis was performed via SPSS version 24, which employs the chi-square test, Wilcoxon test, Mann‒Whitney test, and Friedman test.ResultsThere was a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in all the measured variables after the intervention (p < 0.001). Postintervention, the intervention group demonstrated significant increases in mean scores for oral health knowledge (from 5.4 to 9.3), attitudes (from 55.6 to 62.1), self-efficacy (from 53.5 to 62.7), and practices (from 28.0 to 33.4) (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the control group (p > 0.05). There was a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in all the measured variables after the intervention (p < 0.001). The average score of dental plaque was significantly different between the two groups (p < 0.001). The Wilcoxon test revealed that after the intervention, the test group had improved indicators, and the control group had increased dental plaque scores.ConclusionThe educational intervention effectively enhanced oral health knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and practices among female students. The incorporation of such interventions into school health programs may promote long-term improvements in oral health behaviors among adolescents.Trial registrationClinical Trial Registry (IRCT code: IRCT20180827040889N1), registered on 27/01/2024.

  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 1
  • 10.1002/hsr2.71783
Exploring Coastal Male Knowledge, Perception, and Prioritization of Female Menstrual Health in Southern Bangladesh
  • Jan 26, 2026
  • Health Science Reports
  • Farhana Yasmin + 3 more

ABSTRACTBackgroundMenstruation is a natural biological process, yet it remains heavily stigmatized and misunderstood in many communities, particularly in rural and coastal regions. In Bangladesh, gender norms, cultural taboos, and environmental challenges like saline water contribute to the neglect of menstrual health, especially in coastal areas.AimThis study aims to explore the knowledge, perceptions, and involvement of coastal males in women's menstrual health and hygiene, focusing on how environmental stressors, such as water salinity, impact menstrual practices.MethodA phenomenological qualitative approach was used to conduct in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with 50 adult males (aged 18 and above) from East Kharia village, Khulna District, Bangladesh. Data were analyzed thematically to uncover the key factors influencing men's understanding and support of menstrual health.ResultsThe findings reveal that many participants had limited knowledge about the biological aspects of menstruation, largely influenced by myths and informal learning. Cultural silence surrounding menstruation was prevalent, with most men avoiding discussions on the topic. Environmental barriers, such as saline water, were identified as exacerbating menstrual health issues. Emotional detachment and lack of support for women during menstruation were common, though a subset of younger, more educated men showed emerging empathy and a shift toward recognizing menstruation as a shared family responsibility.ConclusionThe study highlights significant gaps in male knowledge and involvement in menstrual health, compounded by cultural taboos and environmental stressors. It calls for gender‐sensitive education and policies that encourage male participation in menstrual hygiene management, as well as addressing the unique challenges faced by coastal communities in managing menstrual health.

  • Research Article
  • 10.64149/j.carcinog.24.3s.269-277
A Study on Comparison of taxes imposed on Menstrual Hygiene Products in Top 10 Nations with Highest GDP
  • Aug 31, 2025
  • Journal of Carcinogenesis
  • Pallavy Gaur + 2 more

Menstruation, a natural process that occurs in women, has been a taboo subject for centuries. It is a process that occurs when the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in vaginal bleeding. On average, a woman menstruates around 3000 days in her lifetime. Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is critical to ensure the safe management of menstruation. However, due to the misconception that menstruation is a sickness, women often face difficulties accessing proper MHM, which leads them to use unsanitary materials, leading to vaginal diseases. MHM is essential for women's basic rights and dignity, yet it is not defined in global sanitation standards. Gender equity is part of the SDGs, but menstrual hygiene is not included, which is a hindrance to overall growth and self-worth for women. Menstrual health is critical to achieving several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 6. (Clean Water and Sanitation). Period poverty can be addressed by governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector by providing free or low-cost sanitary products, improving sanitation facilities, and promoting menstrual health education. Investing in menstrual health can have a variety of benefits, including improved gender equality, poverty reduction, and overall health and well-being. This paper is an exploratory study based on secondary research to on comparison of taxes imposed on menstrual hygiene products in top 10 nations with highest GDP. Menstrual health is critical to achieving several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 6. (Clean Water and Sanitation). Period poverty can be addressed by governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector by providing free or low-cost sanitary products, improving sanitation facilities, and promoting menstrual health education. Investing in menstrual health can have a variety of benefits, including improved gender equality, poverty reduction, and overall health and well-being. Understanding this can help achieve gender equality in all sectors because women must not be punished for being women.

  • Research Article
  • 10.22251/jlcci.2024.24.4.611
무용전공 학생용 창의적 자기개념 척도의 타당화 및 측정 불변성 검증
  • Feb 29, 2024
  • Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction
  • Hye-Joo Chang

Objectives The purpose of this study is to examine the validity and reliability of Korean version of the Short Scale of Creative Self-Concept (Karwowski, 2011; Karwowski et al., 2018) and test the measurement equivalence across high school and college students majoring in dance.&#x0D; Methods Two studies were conducted. Study 1 was conducted with 158 participants (high school students=75, college students=83) to explore the potential factor structure of the shortened creative self-concept scale adapted into Korean version. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, and internal consistency analysis. Study 2 was conducted with a total of 715 participants (high school students=343, college students=372) to examine the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the Short Scale of Creative Self-Concept. Data were collected using two other questionnaires for concurrent validity and one questionnaire for predictive validity, and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, correlation, regression analysis, internal consistency analysis, and multi-group confirmatory factor analysis.&#x0D; Results In Study 1, the results of the principal component analysis showed that 9 items were extracted from 2 factors (creative self-efficacy=5 items; creative personal identity=4 items), accounting for 72.40% of the total variance. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis in Study 2 showed that the 10-item measurement model fit the data (²=293.84, df=26, p=.001, CFI=.931, TLI=.905, RMSEA=.070; 90%CI: .068, .093). The creative self-concept subscale showed static correlations ranging from .39 to .80 between dance identity and creative self-efficacy, and positively predicted intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation. Measurement coefficients, structural covariance, and measurement residuals were variant between high school and college students, and conceptual reliability and internal consistency coefficients were all above 0.80.&#x0D; Conclusions Results suggest that the Short Form Creative Self-Concept Scale can be applied to measure creative self-efficacy and creative personal identity of dance major’s students.&#x0D;

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