The Multifaceted Hygiene Promotion Program on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Among Girls in Nigeria: A Quasi Experimental Study

Abstract

Aims: The onset of menstruation is a significant milestone in a girl's life, yet the silence and stigma surrounding it burden young girls by keeping them ignorant of this natural phenomenon. In Kano State, prevailing myths and cultural norms dictate restrictive practices that further exacerbate the challenges associated with menstruation, including limited access to sanitation facilities and hygiene products. This study investigates the effectiveness of the multifaceted hygiene promotion on knowledge, attitude and practice of menstruation among girls in Nigeria.

Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, with 104 participants divided into intervention and control groups. Pre- and post-intervention assessments, along with a two-month follow-up, were conducted to measure changes in knowledge, attitude and practice concerning menstruation among girls in Nigeria. The intervention group received the multifaceted hygiene promotion program, while the control group received standard education. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the collected data of the study.

Result: The findings from the baseline data reveal significant gaps in knowledge, negative attitudes, and suboptimal practices regarding menstrual health among the participants, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive and multifaceted interventions.

Conclusions: In conclusion, this study establishes a foundational understanding of the current state of menstrual health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among secondary school girls in Nigeria. The insights gained from the baseline data provide a strong basis for the design and implementation of effective interventions aimed at empowering girls with the knowledge and skills necessary for managing menstruation confidently and hygienically.