Perception Knowledge and Practices Regarding Menstruation Among Adolescent Girls and Reproductive Age Group Women

Menstruation is a biological event in the female reproductive system. Hormones generated by the ovaries, such as oestrogen and progesterone, regulate the menstrual cycle. Menstruation usually starts at adolescence and lasts until menopause, which happens around the age of 50. It is a natural and healthy component of reproductive life, albeit it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Menstruation symptoms include cramps, bloating, migraines, and mood changes. Menstruating people face social and cultural taboos in various countries. This study was conducted to identify the basic knowledge, and perceptions of women about menstruation and also to identifying the hygienic procedures they are practicing during menstruation in the Vijayawada locale of Andhra Pradesh state, India. Results indicated that, majority of the study subjects have their mother as person who informed them about menstruation. Almost 50% of the subjects did not fear after knowing about menstruation significant number of woman among studied following the hygienic practices during menstruation. However, 17% of the subjects, informed that their family members behave differently during menstruation. There were changes in appetite behaviour and there was a rise in sweet cravings in the studied population. Overall, menstruation is an important and necessary process for reproductive health, and it is crucial to ensure that individuals have access to adequate resources and support for managing their menstrual cycles. Further extensive awareness programs help in eliminating the social stigma regarding menstruation.