Background of the Study
Menstrual hygiene is a crucial aspect of reproductive health, yet it remains a neglected issue in many parts of Nigeria, especially among adolescent mothers. Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) involves access to clean menstrual products, proper sanitation facilities, and adequate knowledge of menstrual health (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections, reproductive health issues, and increased vulnerability to social stigma.
Sokoto State, located in northwestern Nigeria, has a high prevalence of adolescent motherhood due to early marriages and limited access to reproductive health education (National Population Commission [NPC], 2023). Many adolescent mothers in the state face challenges in managing their menstruation due to poverty, lack of hygiene facilities, and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. The stigma associated with menstruation often prevents young mothers from seeking information, leading to unhygienic practices that may increase the risk of infections.
While efforts have been made to promote menstrual health education in Nigeria, there is limited research focusing on adolescent mothers who may have additional challenges due to their early transition to motherhood. This study aims to assess menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices among adolescent mothers in Sokoto State, identifying gaps in knowledge and barriers to proper hygiene management.
Statement of the Problem
Menstrual hygiene remains a critical issue among adolescent mothers in Sokoto State due to a lack of awareness, poverty, and cultural restrictions. Many young mothers do not have access to sanitary products, relying on unsafe alternatives such as old cloths or rags, which may not be properly cleaned or dried. Inadequate menstrual hygiene practices can result in reproductive tract infections (RTIs), poor self-esteem, and school absenteeism.
Despite efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations to improve menstrual health education, many adolescent mothers in Sokoto State still lack adequate knowledge about safe hygiene practices during menstruation. There is an urgent need to assess their level of awareness, identify the barriers they face, and propose strategies for improving menstrual hygiene education among this vulnerable group.
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the level of menstrual hygiene knowledge among adolescent mothers in Sokoto State.
To examine the menstrual hygiene practices adopted by adolescent mothers in Sokoto State.
To identify challenges adolescent mothers face in accessing menstrual hygiene products and education.
Research Questions
What is the level of menstrual hygiene knowledge among adolescent mothers in Sokoto State?
What menstrual hygiene practices do adolescent mothers in Sokoto State adopt?
What are the main challenges adolescent mothers face in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene?
Research Hypotheses
Adolescent mothers in Sokoto State have limited knowledge of menstrual hygiene management.
Poor menstrual hygiene practices increase the risk of reproductive health complications among adolescent mothers.
Improving menstrual hygiene education will enhance menstrual health practices among adolescent mothers in Sokoto State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on adolescent mothers in Sokoto State, examining their knowledge and practices regarding menstrual hygiene. The study may be limited by social stigma, which could affect participants’ willingness to discuss menstruation openly, and by access to adolescent mothers in remote areas.
Definitions of Terms
Menstrual hygiene management (MHM): The practice of using clean materials to absorb menstrual blood, ensuring access to sanitation facilities, and proper disposal of used materials.
Adolescent mothers: Young mothers aged 10–19 who have given birth at an early age.
Reproductive tract infections (RTIs): Infections that affect the reproductive organs, often caused by poor menstrual hygiene.
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