To study the menstrual pattern and various menstrual problems among adolescent girls

Abstract

Background: Adolescence is the period of rapid physical growth, psychological and social changes. This period is marked by the onset of menarche in the girls. Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by all adolescent girls and women in reproductive age. The objective of the study was to know the menstrual pattern and disorders among adolescent females visiting OPD of our tertiary care center. Method: A cross sectional study was carried out in which a total of 100 adolescent girls who attended gynaecological OPD were included. Pre-designed structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Result: Majority of girls (59%) had menarche between 10-13 years of age. Dysmenorrhea was the most common menstrual problem (56%) followed by oligomenorrhea (48%). Dysmenorrhea was also the most common reason for absenteeism from school (14%) followed by menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea (8%). Conclusion: This study highlights the need of awareness of menstrual problems among adolescent girls to avoid future reproductive health problems. Educating students about menstrual health by trained health professionals and teachers can help in reducing their psychological and physical stress.