Exploring menstrual personal hygiene behavior among adolescent girls: A qualitative study

ZulHijeria Tamrin; Diana Mirja Togubu; Musfirah Musfirah

doi:10.61099/jih.v2i3.478

Authors

ZulHijeria Tamrin Department of Public Health, Universitas Tamalatea Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Diana Mirja Togubu Department of Public Health, Universitas Tamalatea Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8684-5352
Musfirah Musfirah Department of Public Health, Universitas Tamalatea Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7674-6915

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61099/jih.v2i3.478

Keywords:

adolescents, health behavior, menstruation, menstrual hygiene, reproductive health

Abstract

Introduction: Menstrual personal hygiene is an essential component of adolescent reproductive health. Inadequate menstrual hygiene practices increase the risk of reproductive tract infections and negatively affect adolescents' physical and psychological well-being. Despite increasing awareness, many school-aged girls continue to experience challenges in maintaining appropriate menstrual hygiene. This study aimed to explore menstrual personal hygiene behaviors among adolescent girls and to identify factors influencing these behaviors in a junior high school setting.

Research Methodology: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted among adolescent girls at SMPN 30 Makassar, Indonesia. Eight participants were purposively selected based on their menstrual experience and ability to provide rich information. Additional perspectives were obtained from teachers and parents as supporting informants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings related to menstrual hygiene behavior.

Results: The study involved 8 primary participants. Four interrelated themes emerged: (1) limited knowledge regarding appropriate menstrual hygiene practices; (2) positive attitudes toward maintaining cleanliness during menstruation despite inconsistent implementation; (3) limited reinforcement from teachers due to irregular health education and monitoring; and (4) strong parental influence, particularly from mothers, in providing information, emotional support, and practical guidance. Overall, participants recognized the importance of menstrual hygiene; however, gaps between knowledge and daily practice remained evident because of insufficient health education and limited environmental support.

Conclusion: Menstrual personal hygiene behavior among adolescent girls is shaped by individual knowledge, attitudes, school support, and family involvement. Strengthening comprehensive school-based menstrual health education while promoting active collaboration between teachers, parents, and healthcare providers may improve healthy menstrual hygiene practices and contribute to better adolescent reproductive health outcomes.

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