SANITARY PAD USAGE AND ANALYSIS OF BOTTLENECKS AND BARRIERS IN ITS ADOPTION AMONG WOMEN RESIDING IN THE FIELD PRACTICE AREA OF MADHUBANI MEDICAL COLLEGE

Abstract

Introduction: Good mensural hygiene is essential for improve reproductive health of women. Usage of sanitary pad is critical step towards this goal.

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of sanitary pad usage and ascertain various perceived barrier which prevents it usage.

Methodology: We carried out a descriptive cross-sectional study using a mixed methodology among women in reproductive age residing in the field practice area of Madhubani medical college

Results: The mean age of women (Table I) under study was 26 + 9.8years. The mean age of onset of menarche was 11+ 2.9 years. We found that 68% of the women residing in field practice area of Madhubani medical college don’t use sanitary pad. On Bottle neck analysis we found that one of the major hinderance to non-usage of sanitary pad was lack of supply to good quality low cost sanitary pad.

Conclusion: The prevalence of sanitary pad usage among women residing field practice area of Madhubani medical college was 32%. Majority of women were of opinion that non availability of low-cost good quality sanitary pad was the major bottle neck which prevented usage among them.