Menstruation Knowledge, Stigmatization and Support Perception of Adolescent Boys in a Rural Secondary School in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: To assess menstruation knowledge and stigmatization and support the perception of adolescent boys in a rural secondary school. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 121 secondary school boys drawn from all classes using a simple random sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and perception of menstruation. Findings: Most of the respondents, 55.4 % were aged between 15-18 years. Those in their fourth-year class (SS1) were more (40.5%). Some felt that menstruation was a disease (13.4%), contagious (24%), and unclean (29.8%). Those with correct knowledge of menarche were 97.5%. Those willing to obtain more knowledge on menstruation were 79.3%. More than half, 57% were unwilling to share food, items, and bedrooms with a menstruating female and 38.8 % believed that women should observe restrictions during their period. Those willing to offer support were 47.9% which was the highest and no support 1.7%. Teasing of girls in their period was reported by 20.6% of the respondents. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: There was good knowledge of menarche. However, misconceptions about menstruation and teasing were observed. This study contributes to theory by exploring boys' perceptions of menstruation and linking their misinformation to menstrual stigma. Practically, it emphasizes the need for educational programs, awareness campaigns, and peer support systems to reduce stigma and improve understanding. On a policy level, it advocates for menstrual education in school curricula, gender equality in health education, and policies addressing cultural misconceptions around adolescent reproductive health. More health education on menstruation needs to be given to secondary school boys.