This paper investigates the prevalence by geographical locations and socio-demographic correlations of hygienic menstrual practices among young currently married Indian women.
The study is based on secondary data collected from the latest round of the NFHS-4. Ninety-four thousand thirty-four young, currently married women aged 15–24 years were utilized in this study. The prevalence of hygienic menstrual practices was portrayed across regions, states, and districts of India. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to assess the factors associated with hygienic menstrual practices.
The prevalence of menstrual hygiene practices is lower in low-income states of central and eastern India. Multivariate analyses reveal that women’s education and wealth status are the most important positive factors of hygienic menstrual practices. Women’s autonomy and exposure to mass media also positively impact the use of menstrual hygiene practice. In contrast, women residing in rural areas, belonging to scheduled tribes, and unemployed women are less likely to use hygienic methods during their menstruation.
This study’s findings suggest increasing female education opportunities, providing economic incentives, and enhancing women’s autonomy could improve women’s hygienic practices during the menstruation period.
Reference: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13625187.2020.1810227
