MAPPING THE BARRIERS OF RECEIVES AFFORDABLE MENSTRUAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS AND HEALTHCARE SERVICES AT THE RURAL SETTING OF BANGLADESH

Abstract

Background: Menstrual hygiene health has paramount importance for the adolescents and women. The evidence based studies on menstrual hygiene management are very few and far less in rural setting of Bangladesh possibly for lack of interest in research and non-availability of the fund. Relatively menstrual hygiene do not lessen its importance as a subject as it one of the major cause of reproductive tract infections of adolescents and women. Methods: The study had two sets of data: one set of data was collected from the community through in-depth interview and another was from Informal Group Discussions (IGD). Fisher (1993) formula was followed to determine the sample size. The data has been analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive and Qualitative statistical tools were performed to analyze the collected data. A total 500 adolescents and women were interviewed from four Upazilas. Results: Mothers (78%) were the reliable place for the sharing respondent's first menstrual experiences. About 95% respondents believed myths of the society about menstrual hygiene. About 78% respondents were used to old cloth. The collection of menstrual hygiene materials and dispose of used products were vexing problems in the rural setting. The major portion (63%) has dreamed of having of menstrual hygiene product with good quality. The low cost of a product (p<.001), expected healthcare services (p<.040), awareness programs (p<.001), social media (p<.002) are useful tools to increase the user's having menstrual hygiene products and receiving services in the rural setting. Conclusions: The government should have scheme for adolescents and women at rural setting address to culture and beliefs, resources and practice. To improve the capacity of adolescents and women to practice quality and affordable sanitary napkin, it is recommended that to start sensitizing activities at community setting immediately.