Title: Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene among GNM Nursing Students in a Selected Nursing Institution in Bihar

Authors: Samapti Pal, Dr Jogindra Vati

 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v9i4.15

Abstract

Introduction

Menstruation is the physiological uterine bleeding that occurs regularly for every reproductive age group of women, from menarche to menopause. It is shedding of the endometrium due to the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian axis role. Usually, menstruation lasts for 4-5 days with a heavier flow on the first two days. Menstrual discharge is usually a dark-colored viscous liquid that contains blood, mucus, vaginal epithelial cell, fragments of endometrium, a little bit of prostaglandin, and enzymes. All these make it a favorable environment for micro-organism growth. So, maintenance of hygiene during menstruation flow is essential. Poor menstrual hygiene leads to several reproductive tract and urinary tract infections. Candidiasis, fungal infections are most common, whereas it can also lead to Human Papilloma Virus infection which can cause cervical cancer. Studies have shown that not upholding hygiene makes women prone to all types of Sexually Transmitted Infections(STIs) including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).Studies have also revealed that improper menstrual hygiene predisposes women to some communicable diseases and it can also hamper daily life.1

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Corresponding Author

Samapti Pal

Ph D scholar, Himlayan University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh & Nursing Tutor State Nodal Center, IGIMS College of Nursing, Patna, Bihar