MENSTRUAL HYGIENE KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES AND INTERVENTIONS AMONG JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS IN THE KROBO AREA OF GHANA

Abstract

Purpose –– This study was conducted to assess the menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices of adolescent girls in the Krobo area of Ghana. Methods –– It adopted a cross-sectional study where 245 Junior High School girls from eight schools in two municipal districts of Ghana were studied. Findings –– The study identified that only 35% of students frequently change pads, although 96% of them use sanitary pads. It was also detected that girls avoid school when they are menstruating for reasons such as severe bleeding, fear of stains, painful periods and a lack of facilities at school which impacts their academic performance negatively. Conclusion & Recommendations –– The study revealed that the majority of the girls do not change pads or dispose of them while in school due to inadequate facilities. Therefore, it is highly recommended that schools give proper education and provide appropriate facilities for girls’ academic advancement, good health and well-being. Keywords –– Menstrual hygiene, Water, Sanitation and Health, Adolescent girls, School health programme