Feminine Hygiene Research Articles

How to Promote Women’s Shift Towards Reusable Feminine Hygiene Products: The Application of Push-Pull-Mooring Effect Model

The growing environmental concern has promoted the global shift towards sustainable consumption, leading to the focus on reusable products. While extant literature has delved into the purchase intention of feminine hygiene products, it has often disregard the intentions behind women switching to reusable alternatives. To address this gap, the present research explores the drivers addressing women's intention to switch from disposable products to reusable options like menstrual cups and cloth pads. By utilizing non-probability purposive sampling, the study applies the Push, Pull, and Mooring (PPM) model to a sample of 386 women aged 18 to menopause. Theoretical insights from this research inform women's predisposition towards adopting reusable feminine hygiene products. Empirical findings identify pricing benefits as a significant pull factor along with women's positive attitude to switch. It also indicates that push factors have a lower impact on switching intention than pull and mooring factors. The findings underscore the potential for marketers to plan for a green transition by improving the design of sales strategy. This also provides a reference for the execution of government policies to promote the adoption of reusable feminine hygiene products to lower environmental wastage.

Bridging the GAP: Probiotic Douches Redefining the Feminine Hygiene.

Vaginal douching is a centuries-old practice which is still in use, especially among adolescents. "Probiotic douches" are the vaginal douches that are formulated with probiotics and are intended to restore or maintain the vaginal microbiome balance. Probiotic douches are a new type of feminine hygiene product that claims to promote a balanced vaginal microbiome and improve overall well-being. However, the evidence supporting the use of probiotics for vaginal health is limited because of the variability in probiotic strains and dosages studied, and the lack of more comprehensive, long-term clinical trials. Most of the existing scientific literature on probiotics focuses on oral probiotic supplements and vaginal probiotic suppositories. Some potential benefits of probiotic douches include restoring a balanced vaginal microbiota, preventing, or managing infections, supporting local immune function, reducing odor and discharge, and enhancing overall vaginal comfort. However, it is important to note that these benefits have not been definitively proven and remain a subject of ongoing research. There are also potential risks associated with their use including disruption of the natural vaginal ecosystem by introducing foreign substances, risk of infection, and stability issues with the formulation that may lead to negative consequences. This review attempts to comprehend the critical need for robust scientific research to guide the safe and effective incorporation of probiotic douches into modern feminine hygiene practices, revolutionizing women's health, and well-being.

Empirical Study on the Usage and Promotion of Sustainable Feminine Hygiene Products†

Compared with disposable equivalents, sustainable feminine hygiene products are promising for reducing pollution and could lead to the amelioration of the menstrual cycle, with overall health benefits for women. Through empirical research and online promotion, this study aimed to examine the efficiency and comfort of reusable menstrual products and address the SDGs that target climate change and a healthy lifestyle for global citizens. The data were collected by distributing products to 26 women aged 18--28 years and collecting responses through curated questionnaires before, during and after usage for 2 months. Our main findings showed that women reported a better sensory experience with reusable products with improved comfort and positive changes in their perception, which led them to continue using the pads in the future. Thus, we can conclude that sustainable feminine hygiene products may garner positive reviews from their users; with adequate promotion and support, we can work toward the goal of prospective benefits both for women and the environment.

Enhancing the efficacy of feminine hygiene sanitary napkins by developing a super absorbent polymer based on methyl methacrylate and methacrylic acid

AbstractSuper absorbent polymer based on methyl methacrylate (MMA), methacrylic acid (MAA) has been prepared during the present work for coating the top layer of feminine sanitary napkins. Synthesized polymers were coated on the needly punched cotton and adjusted as the top layer of the sanitary napkins, which has been prepared. The samples were evaluated by means of absorbency capacity, rewet back, strike through, and pH by the comparative study with commercially available sanitary napkin. The most suitable ratio of monomers (60 g MMA, and 40 g MAA) for synthesizing polymer was suggested. Absorbency capacity of the said ratio is competing with commercial sample with 63.68 g absorbent capacity. Specially, pH of prepared polymers suggested the acidic value and those are more preferable for maintaining the acidic pH of vagina at the menstrual time. Present work suggests the polymer, which can be utilize for coating the feminine napkin by the comparative result suggested by absorbency capacity, rewet back, strike through, and pH.

Towards a Wearable Feminine Hygiene Platform for Detection of Invasive Fungal Pathogens via Gold Nanoparticle Aggregation.

Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungus that becomes pathogenic and problematic under certain biological conditions. C. albicans may cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms, as well as deaths in immunocompromised patients. Therefore, early detection of C. albicans is essential. However, conventional detection methods are costly, slow, and inaccessible to women in remote or developing areas. To address these concerns, we have developed a wearable and discrete naked-eye detectable colorimetric platform for C. albicans detection. With some modification, this platform is designed to be directly adhered to existing feminine hygiene pads. Our platform is rapid, inexpensive, user-friendly, and disposable and only requires three steps: (i) the addition of vaginal fluid onto sample pads; (ii) the addition of gold nanoparticle gel and running buffer, and (iii) naked eye detection. Our platform is underpinned by selective thiolated aptamer-based recognition of 1,3-β-D glucan molecules-a hallmark of C. albicans cell walls. In the absence of C. albicans, wearable sample pads turn bright pink. In the presence of C. albicans, the wearable pads turn dark blue due to significant nanoparticle target-induced aggregation. We demonstrate naked-eye colorimetric detection of 4.4 × 106C. albicans cells per ml and nanoparticle stability over a pH range of 3.0-8.0. We believe that this proof-of-concept platform has the potential to have a significant impact on women's health globally.

Preparation of microencapsulated phase change materials for use in feminine hygiene napkins based on pH response

Preparation of microencapsulated phase change materials for use in feminine hygiene napkins based on pH response

Penyuluhan Personal Hygiene Saat Menstruasi dengan Kejadian Keputihan pada Remaja Putri Kelas X di SMA Negeri 3 Ambon

Feminine hygiene (personal hygiene), especially during menstruation is often ignored by adolescents, if they do not maintain genital hygiene properly, then in a humid state, fungi and bacteria that are in the female area will thrive. The use of underwear that uses thin materials and not absorbing sweat can also make the female area moist and smelly, making it easier for fungi and bacteria to grow. smells can make it easier for fungi and bacteria to nest and the length of time using sanitary napkins that are more than 2-3 hours can make it easier for fungi and bacteria to nest.The aim is to provide new insights to adolescent girls about how to maintain personal hygiene during menstruation. about how to maintain personal hygiene during menstruation and the incidence of vaginal discharge in high school students in class X.I at SMA Negeri 3 Ambon. The method of this community service was carried out using the lecture method and question and answer discussions as well as pre and post tests. The result is an increase in knowledge of adolescent girls regarding menstrual hygiene and the incidence of whitish discharge.

Abstract A017: Patient-reported experience related to aspects of quality of life after cystectomy from an exploratory focus group

Abstract Purpose: These exploratory focus groups examined patient experiences after having a cystectomy following bladder cancer. Methods: US individuals aged >50 years with self-reported diagnosis of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) or muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who had undergone partial or radical cystectomy were recruited through a Patient Engagement Research Council program and invited to participate in an exploratory focus group (October 2022). Patients completed a prework survey on initial diagnosis, treatments, and how aspects of their life changed over time from pre-diagnosis, around the time of decision to undergo cystectomy, 90 days after cystectomy, and at present day. Patients attended gender-specific focus group sessions to discuss their patient journey, support needs, and how having a cystectomy affected their lives. Discussions were facilitated by a gender-matched moderator using a semi-structured discussion guide. Patients provided written informed consent and were compensated for their time. Key themes were identified by coding of audio transcripts and direct observations via the qualitative research analysis software MAXQDA. Results: Patients were six White adults (female n=3, male n=3, median age 68 years) with NMIBC (n=2) or MIBC (n=4) who underwent radical cystectomy between 2000 and 2020. Patients reported that bladder-sparing approaches were rarely introduced or discussed by their care team during their diagnostic journey, instead identifying disease eradication and pain improvement as primary drivers for choosing cystectomy. In the first 90 days post-surgery, patients reported that cystectomy negatively affected their ability to perform daily activities, mental health, and physical intimacy while adapting to a “new normal,” citing challenges with urinary diversion routes. Female patients cited a general lack of female-centric support (e.g. feminine hygiene and care education) as their support groups were mostly comprised of male patients focusing on male-centric issues (e.g., erectile dysfunction). In the present day, patients reported lower sex drive, satisfaction with body image, and physical intimacy. Patients called for more privacy consideration during medical examinations, better ostomy care support, increased awareness among healthcare professionals about the struggles patients face throughout their cystectomy journey, and improved education about available treatment options (including bladder preservation) and possible ramifications of cystectomy on all aspects of life (including sexual health and female-centric needs). Conclusions: Cystectomy can negatively affect patients’ lives, affecting their ability to participate in daily activities, mental health, and physical intimacy among those with NMIBC and MIBC. Patients expressed the need for holistic, long-term support (including awareness of treatment options, emotional support, and ostomy care) before, during, and after cystectomy. Citation Format: Nida Imran, Wesley Peters, Karen Fixler, Priyanka Madireddi, Lisa M. Shea, Andrea Ireland. Patient-reported experience related to aspects of quality of life after cystectomy from an exploratory focus group [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Bladder Cancer: Transforming the Field; 2024 May 17-20; Charlotte, NC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(10_Suppl):Abstract nr A017.

Impact of Hazardous Chemical Compounds on the Reproductive System Reported in Sanitary Products

Abstract: A particular group of routine essentials, feminine hygiene items, might expose women to plasticizers and antimicrobial agents. The entire world produces and uses a vast amount of chemicals, some of which may be harmful to reproductive health. The majority of chemicals and work environments have not been investigated for their potential to harm reproductive systems up to this point. The Republic of Korea and other recently industrialized nations have accumulated chemicals and other toxicants quickly, endangering well-being, especially their reproductive systems. (UTC) Women frequently utilize feminine hygiene products (FHPs) as personal care products. ( 2 )According to a broad review, sanitary pads have an impact on endometriosis, vaginal microflora, and vulvar or vaginal skin. Female health has also been found to be impacted by social contexts, such as the use of hygiene products or puberty education. (temp) Chemicals that are dangerous now or in the future are included in the category of sanitary products. Infertility, ovarian cancer, skin rashes, and skin darkening are just a few of the problems that can arise from using sanitary products that contain hazardous chemicals and harm the reproductive system. menstrual cycle imbalance. Sanitary products contain a variety of substances, including VOC, furans, phthalates, bisphenols, and dioxin. Jppd Diapers and sanitary pads are composed of synthetic plastic materials, which may leak when being used. In the present study, the quantities of phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP, and BBP) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (methylene chloride, toluene, and xylene) in sanitary pads and diapers were measured.

IJCM_95A: To Assess the knowledge and practice regarding reproductive tract infection among female of reproductive age group in Raipur city Chhattisgarh

Background: Reproductive tract infection (RTI) is a global health problem among women, especially in South East Asia Region (SEAR) countries. They may progress to serious complications and cause a high degree of morbidity during the sexually active period of life. More than a million women and infants die of the complications of RTI every year. RTI has become a silent epidemic that devastates women’s lives. Globally, three different types of RTI cause significant amounts of morbidity and mortality among women – sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (including gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, trichomonas, and HIV infections); endogenous infections resulting from the overgrowth of organisms normally present in the reproductive tract (such as candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis); and iatrogenic infections related to medical procedures (such as menstrual regulation, abortion or IUD insertion). The presence of STI increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection by three to five times. Objectives: 1- To Assess the knowledge of female what is reproductive tract infection how it occur and spread among residents of Raipur City, Chhattisgarh. 2- To Assess the Factors associated with Knowledge among residents of Raipur City, Chhattisgarh. Methodology: This is an observational cross-sectional study conducted in Raipur City of Chhattisgarh state during the month October 23-January 2024. A pre-designed, self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Systematic Random sampling technique was adopted to select the 350 Study participants. Results: The majority of subjects were between the age of 15-34 year. Most of the subject were of lower middle class socioeconomic status. Additionally, 37.8% of participants were graduates, 59.4% were married and 70% were unemployed. 30.3% subjects had not heard about Reproductive tract infection. 50.6% subjects don’t know about symptoms of RTI, almost half 49.4% subject don’t have knowledge about effect of RTI on health and only 84% female believed that good personal hygiene prevent RTI. 45.1% subjects did not wash their private part after urination, 10.5% female did not wash their used cloth daily after each use. 63.9% female used feminine hygiene products to maintain personal hygiene, 10% female did not change their cloth daily, 33.1% women did not change their pad/ cloth within every 4–6-hour interval during menstruation. Conclusion: Educate women through camps about genital hygiene practices to reduce the risk of RTI. For increased usage of Sanitary pads, more number of sanitary vending machine should be installed in schools, colleges, and health facilities. Implement awareness programs, promoting regular check- ups and safe sex practices to mitigate the risk of RTI.

PROBIOTICS APPLICATION FOR POTENTIAL FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS

The aim of the present research was to develop probiotic delivery systems intended for short-term application in feminine hygiene products. For this, freeze-dried and fresh probiotics (Lactobacillus paragasseri K7), encapsulated into hydroxy-β-cyclodextrins, with and without inulin used as a prebiotic, were at first electrospun onto inert polypropylene carrier fabrics, in order to establish the optimal spinning conditions and confirm the successful formation of fibers. The characteristics of the functionalized materials were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In order to evaluate the functionality of the probiotic delivery systems, in the subsequent stage of the research, the optimum electrospinning formulation was deposited, under the defined optimal conditions, on a different carrier material, namely, a cellulose-based cotton stripe, to get a preliminary demonstration of the suitability of the developed material for its intended application as a feminine hygiene product. For this, the antioxidant properties of the materials and the probiotic release were observed. Experimental results confirmed that the material (cellulose-based cotton stripe/deposited nanofiber) possessed antioxidant properties and released probiotics within 4 hours, being in agreement with the recommended use of such products. This preliminary research underscores the potential usability and applicability of the developed material for tampon use, considering its anti-inflammatory property and beneficial effects in maintaining healthy vaginal microbiota.

Abstract IA005: New directions in prevention and early detection of endometrial cancers

Abstract Most endometrial cancers and precursor lesions are preceded by postmenopausal bleeding (PMB), offering a window of opportunity for early detection and improved survival. Clinical guidelines recommend prompt evaluation of PMB to rule out endometrial cancer. Current diagnostic approaches including transvaginal ultrasound and endometrial biopsy are invasive and can be associated with discomfort and procedural pain, and we have shown that recommendations may not be consistent with underlying risk of endometrial cancer. Access to these procedures may be challenging for patients who live in rural areas or who experience other barriers to care. Current strategies may also have limited accuracy for detecting non-endometrioid cancers which are clinically aggressive, more common in Black women, and increasing in incidence and mortality in the U.S. Black women experience significant racial disparities in endometrial cancer survival and are more likely to experience diagnostic delays compared to their White counterparts. Because of the anatomical continuity of the lower genital tract, we and others have demonstrated the feasibility of pairing molecular assays with minimally invasive self-sampling approaches, such as vaginal tampons, for the detection of tumor DNA. In a recent study led by our colleagues at the Mayo Clinic, we identified over 28 methylation markers that were tested in self-collected tampon samples that showed good clinical performance for endometrial cancer detection. Such approaches can mitigate cancer disparities by offering an at-home early detection strategy to increase coverage and expand access to care. To date, few endometrial cancer studies have been conducted within diverse clinical populations. To address this gap, we designed the Discovery and Evaluation of Tests for Endometrial Cancer in Tampons (DETECT) study. DETECT is a case control study that includes patients undergoing hysterectomy for endometrial cancer and benign conditions at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). DETECT has enrolled over 700 patients to date, including over 360 with endometrial cancer (approximately 30% with non-endometrioid tumors). In this study, we collect extensive questionnaire data including information about symptoms, and novel risk factors such as feminine hygiene and hair product use. We obtain clinical information on diagnostic procedures, surgery, and treatment information from electronic medical records, and collect tampon, tissue, and blood samples from enrolled patients. In preliminary analyses, over two-thirds of participants self-collected a vaginal tampon sample, with collection varying by race (57% in Black vs. 76% in White patients). Next steps include pilot testing to compare the performance of biomarkers (somatic mutations and methylation markers) measured from tampon samples to tissue for endometrial cancer detection. Future goals of DETECT include the evaluation of endometrial cancer risk factors, biomarkers, outcomes, and disparities across the cancer continuum. Citation Format: Megan A. Clarke. New directions in prevention and early detection of endometrial cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Endometrial Cancer: Transforming Care through Science; 2023 Nov 16-18; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(5_Suppl):Abstract nr IA005.

Exploring Feminine Hygiene Product Adoption: A Gynecologists’ Perspective in India. Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to Women’s Buying Behavior

Purpose Feminine hygiene has emerged as a crucial topic of concern in recent years, with growing emphasis on the perspectives of medical professionals, particularly gynecologists. This paper sets out to study the feminine hygiene product adoption among women from gynecologists’ perspective using the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as a relevant and effective framework to study the behavioral tendencies of target audience. Methods Our research employs a qualitative approach, engaging in-depth interviews with 25 gynecologists. A semi-structured questionnaire guided these interviews, and they took place in settings chosen by the gynecologists themselves, such as private clinics or hospitals. The collected data was meticulously analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings Our study confirms the applicability of the TPB as a qualitative research tool. Furthermore, the results have contributed to the evolution and enhancement of the TPB model by incorporating additional influential variables. Notably, ‘comfort’ was identified as a significant factor influencing women’s attitude towards feminine hygiene, and beyond the TPB constructs, product knowledge was revealed to play a pivotal role in shaping women’s intentions to adopt feminine hygiene products. Practical Implication From a social marketing perspective, our study offers valuable insights for various stakeholders within the healthcare industry, policymakers, and product manufacturers. It highlights the urgency of normalizing the acceptance of feminine hygiene products, addressing unfamiliar advantages and disadvantages, and promote product efficacy. By adopting these strategies, stakeholders can better cater to women’s needs and enhance their overall health and well-being. Originality/Value This research makes a noteworthy contribution to the feminine hygiene literature by shedding light on the constructs that need to be integrated to understand women’s menstrual hygiene behavior comprehensively. This study has offered a wide range of understanding about feminine hygiene phenomenon from gynecologists’ perspective that has not yet been explored in any study. Additionally, we provide a robust theoretical framework for comprehending the feminine hygiene context, offering a foundation for further research and practical interventions.

Vaginal douching and health risks among young women.

Vaginal douching is practiced by women for various reasons. Studies have shown that this practice can upset the normal vaginal flora, increasing susceptibility to certain sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). This study aimed to assess the health risks associated with this practice among women aged 15-54 years in a densely populated community in Kumasi, the second capital city of Ghana. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to gather data on the prevalence of vaginal douching among young women and their beliefs, motivations, and knowledge about the practice. A structured questionnaire was used in recruiting participants. One-hundred and fifteenstructured questionnaires were administered to women aged between 15 and 54 after their consent was sought. The study established that more than half of the participants (69.6%) engaged in douching with a midpoint of 19.5. The study indicated no significant difference between the age of participants and douching (p < 0.93). However, there was an indication of a significant association between educational status, marital status, and perception in relation to douching (p < 0.003, 0.0015, and 0.00, respectively), which also influenced the frequency of douching and contraction of STIs. Most women in the study community recruited, regardless of their educational and marital status, believed that douching is necessary and considered part of feminine hygiene practices. Practicing douching may lead to most health complications including pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility which must be given serious attention by researchers, health personnel, and various women's groups.

The effect of level of anxiety about climate change on the use of feminine hygiene products.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between women's menstrual hygiene product use and their level of concern around climate change as well as to identify the variables influencing this relationship. In all, 978 women between the ages of 18 and 49 who were of reproductive age participated in this descriptive cross-sectional study. The CHERRIES criteria were followed in conducting the online survey. Data were gathered using the "personal information form" and the Climate Change Anxiety Scale for Women's Health The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, multiple linear regression, and logistic regression. Women were more prone to using throwaway goods than eco-friendly, sanitary goods when their climate change worry level was lower. Age, education level, region of residence, and the intensity of menstrual bleeding have an impact on the hygiene products used during the menstrual cycle, whereas environmental pollution in the area of residence and a woman's allergy status have an impact on the level of climate change anxiety concerning a woman's health. Women who are worried about how climate change will affect their health prefer to purchase sustainable/eco-friendly items. Starting in adolescence, women can receive advice about the use of sustainable products from health experts who are primarily responsible for women's health.

Maintaining vulvar, vaginal and perineal health: Clinical considerations.

Knowledge of female genital anatomy and physiology is often inadequate or incorrect among women. Precise patient-physician conversations can be inhibited by a reluctance or inability to speak accurately about the vulva and vagina, with the terms often being used interchangeably. There is a paucity of scientific evidence and clinical guidelines to support women and physicians in ensuring best practices in feminine hygiene. In this review, the unmet needs in the field are highlighted. Evidence is provided for the complex array of physiological and pathological systems, mechanisms and behaviours that either protect or, if inappropriate, predispose the vulva and vagina to infections, irritation or other conditions. The need for attention to perineal health is recommended, given the interdependence of perineal and vulvar microbiota and the risk of colonic pathogens reaching the vulva and the vagina. Differences in feminine hygiene practices can vary widely across the world and among varying age groups, and suboptimal habits (such as vaginal douching or the use of certain cleansers) can be associated with increased risks of vulvar and vaginal conditions. Critical areas for discussion when advising women on their intimate health include: advice surrounding aesthetic vulvar cosmetic trends (such as depilation and genital cosmetic surgery), bowel health and habits, and protection against sexually transmitted infections. Routine, once-daily (maximum twice-daily) washing of the vulva with a pH-balanced, mild cleanser is optimal, ideally soon after bowel voiding, when feasible. Due to the finely balanced ecosystems of the vulva, the vagina and the perineal area, a scientific and clinical perspective is essential when determining the most appropriate vulvar cleansers based on their components. Correct intimate care may contribute to improved genital and sexual health and overall well-being. An increased awareness of correct practices will empower women to be the advocates of their own intimate health.

Development of essential oil-containing antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous membranes for sanitary napkin applications

In this study, antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous composite membranes based on natural substances were developed for use in feminine sanitary napkins. Plant-derived natural essential oils, such as lemongrass oil and May Chang oil, were incorporated into polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers using emulsion electrospinning. The fiber morphology, oil distribution, and pore size distribution of the nanofibrous composite membranes were examined. The antimicrobial and deodorizing effects, tensile properties, and release behavior of the functional ingredients from the composite membranes were investigated to examine their use in sanitary napkins. Core–sheath nanofibers, in which lemongrass oil or May Chang oil was uniformly distributed within the fiber core, were fabricated using various oil contents. The essential oil-loaded nanofibrous composite membranes contained pores ranging from 0.130 to 1.349 µm in size. The release profiles of the essential oils from the composite membranes over an 8 h period demonstrated a continuous release of citral and limonene. Composite membranes containing either lemongrass oil or May Chang oil exhibited outstanding antimicrobial effects against vaginal pathogens, such as Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, despite their low oil content. Deodorizing effects against ammonia gas were observed at oil contents higher than that required to achieve antimicrobial effects. The composite membranes exhibited lower Young’s modulus and greater elongation at break values under wet conditions compared to dry conditions. Our findings demonstrate that antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous composite membranes based on plant-derived essential oils have the potential for use in feminine hygiene products.

Culturally Inclusive and Gender Sensitive Menstrual Health Education: Nursing and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organizational Partnership

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.

A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MENSTRUAL CUP ITS ACCEPTIBILITY, SAFETY, LEAKEAGE AND AVAILABILITY AMONG THE TEENAGE GIRL AND THEIR MOTHER IN A PARTICULAR RURAL AREA IN BENGALURU

Background: Menstruation is also known as menses or period or monthly discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of uterus through vagina. The first menstrual period usually occurs between 12-15 years of age, called as Menarche. The typical length of time between the first day of one period and the first day of next period is 21-45 days in young women 21-31 days in adults (an average of 28 days). Bleeding usually lasts around 2 to 7 days.Feminine hygiene products are personal care products used during vaginal discharge, and other bodily functions related to the vulva and vagina. Products that are used during menstruation may also be called menstrual hygiene products, including menstrual pads, tampons, menstrual pads, period panties etc. Feminine hygiene products also include products meant to cleanse the vulva or vagina, such as douches, feminine wipes, and soap.Feminine hygiene products are either disposable or reusable. Sanitary napkins, tampons, and pantyliners are disposable feminine hygiene products. Menstrual cups, cloth menstrual pads,period panties, and sponges are reusable feminine hygiene products.Menstrual cup is a device made up of silicon for menstrual hygiene. Despite its being safe, eco-friendly, cheap, and durable its non-acceptability may be due to higher adoption barriers.We conducted this study to assess the acceptability and safety of menstrual cups. Methods: Post-test design and evaluative approach was adopted. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample of 60 of teenage and mothers for a period of seven days for data collection. Multiple choice questions, close ended questionnaire and planned teaching programme were used as a tool to assess the knowledge on menstrual cups. The data obtained were analysed in terms of the objectives and it was calculated and tabulated Results: The overall findings are that study shows the majority respondents 30 (76.9%) did not have knowledge regarding menstrual cup and 9 (23.1%) did have knowledge about menstrual cup. Conclusion: The study shows that the respondents had inadequate knowledge regarding menstrual cup. There is a significant increase in post-test scores after the planned teaching programme about menstrual cup and menstrual hygiene.

The influence of viscose fibre properties on the absorbency of feminine hygiene tampons: the pivotal role of cross-sectional geometry

Feminine hygiene products, used by millions of women worldwide on a daily basis, come in various forms. Among them, tampons are a prominent type that aims to absorb menstrual blood directly in the vagina. However, the underlying mechanisms governing liquid absorption in tampons have received limited research attention and remain poorly understood. This study aims to investigate these mechanisms by examining the two main types of viscose fibres used in tampons and their effects when employed in tampon production. The sole distinction between the fibre types lies in their geometric shape—round or trilobal—while all other fibre parameters remain constant. To explore these mechanisms, tampon proxies made from these fibres were created and subjected to tests measuring liquid absorption. In addition, a novel method employing infrared thermography was utilized to infer the stored energy within the compressed tampon. Furthermore, individual fibres were characterised for chemical composition, surface properties, fine structure, liquid interaction, mechanical parameters, and friction behaviour. The results revealed that trilobal fibres exhibited higher tampon absorbency compared to their round counterparts, despite sharing similar chemical composition and comparable mechanical characteristics. This disparity can be attributed to the greater specific surface area of trilobal fibres, leading to enhanced liquid uptake through fibre swelling. However, single fibre swelling only accounted for a minor fraction of the total liquid absorbency of a tampon. The most influential fibre parameter was the geometric shape, as trilobal fibres facilitated the construction and maintenance of a bulkier network with increased available volume for liquid absorption.Graphic abstract