Menstrual Hygiene Awareness and Management among Adolescent Girls: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Menstrual health is an important component of reproductive health and overall well-being among adolescent girls and young women. This study assessed menstrual health awareness, menstrual characteristics, and hygiene management practices among college-going girls. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Malineni Perumallu Educational Society between January and April 2026. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through Google Forms after informed consent was obtained. Of 473 students who participated in the survey, 372 met the study criteria and were included in the analysis. Descriptive data were presented as frequencies and percentages. Among the participants, 44.1% were aged 20–21 years. Regular menstrual cycles were reported by 77.1% of participants, while 22.9% reported irregular cycles. Most participants (75.8%) reported cycle intervals of 21–35 days, and 52.3% reported menstrual bleeding lasting 4–6 days. Sanitary pads were the most commonly used menstrual product, and most participants reported changing pads every 2–4 hours. Academic stress was the most frequently reported stress-related factor affecting menstruation. The findings indicate generally satisfactory menstrual hygiene practices, but menstrual irregularities and stress-related disturbances remain important concerns. Comprehensive menstrual health education, stress management, appropriate healthcare-seeking behavior, and improved access to affordable menstrual hygiene products are recommended to support reproductive health among college-going girls.