Awareness of menstrual symptoms and related problems among school girls in Kandy Municipal area: a descriptive study

Introduction: Menarche is the main milestone during puberty in girls and brings about important physical and psychological changes. Menstruation will be a novel experience for them and acclimatizing for it takes place during this age. Young adolescent girls could face several problems during this stage. Main objective of this research was to investigate some of the key problems in relation to menstruation. Methods: Girls between the ages of 14-16 were selected as the study group from eight schools in the Kandy Municipality area. Data regarding problems, difficulties, help seeking behavior and their knowledge of menstruation was collected via a questionnaire and was analyzed. Results: Response rate of the study was 88.6% (N=1064). 662 (62.2%) had irregular menstrual cycles, 255 (24%) regular cycles and 47 (13.8%) were not concerned. 435 (43.9%) had heavy menstrual flow and among them 72 (7%) had reported clots. 346 (37%) said that the school attendance was affected, while 344 (37.4%) and 541 (57.4%) responders mentioned that their academic performance and sports activities respectively, were affected. Increase of pimples was observed among 190 (19%) responders while a change in body hair and texture were observed by 130 (13%). 484 (50.1%) and 204 (20.8%) responders experienced anxiety and mood swings respectively. Impact on social activities was seen in 66 girls (6.7%). 890 (83.6%) had selected a friend as a discussant. Conclusion: Since there is a considerable number with issues related to menstruation, improved health care programs regarding menstruation should be done often for adolescents.