Attitude to Menstrual Hygiene Practices Among Female Secondary School Students in Enugu Educational Zone, Enugu State: Implication for Wellness Promotion

Abstract

Health issues related to poor attitude to menstrual hygiene is prevalent among young girls especial those in secondary school in Enugu Educational Zone, Enugu state and beyond. This study was set to find out the attitude to menstrual hygiene practices among female secondary school students in Enugu Educational Zone, Enugu State. Survey research design was adopted. Two research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The population was 20,648 while the sample was 387 female secondary school students. Valid and reliable questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Pearson’s Product Moment Statistic was employed to determine the correlation coefficient which yielded index value of 0.86. The results were analysed using mean and t- test statistic. The findings revealed that the students possesses negative attitude towards menstrual hygiene practices (x=2.33). Also, the null hypothesis was not rejected (p> 0.05); hence, there was no significant difference in the mean response of urban and rural female secondary school students in the study area. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that there is still need for schools to organise menstrual hygiene education on regular basis to help educate the young girls on the hygienic way to handle themselves during this very important period. Also there is need to provide supportive and enabling environment both in schools and homes for girls for effective management of menstruation.