Menstrual disorders: The implications on health and academic activities of female undergraduates in a federal university in Nigeria

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural phenomenon in a female who has reached the age of puberty. However, it is often associated with some discomforts which may affect women’s health and academic activities of students. The study assessed the knowledge, management of menstrual disorders and the health and academic implications on young female under-
graduates using a descriptive cross sectional design. A sample of 400 female undergraduates participated in the study. Data was collected using a 72-item semi structured questionnaire. Data collection lasted for two weeks and analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics at 0.05 level of significance. Result showed that 61% (n = 244) had good knowledge of menstrual disorders and its management. Most prevalent menstrual disorders found in the study was dysmenorrhoea. Missing school was the highest academic effect recorded (64.5%, n = 258) while Dizziness (51%, n = 204) was the highest health implication recorded. A significant association was found between dysmenorrhoea and school absenteeism (χ² = 65.7, P < .05). The study reiterated the need for early educational programme that will assist the female undergraduates to cope well with menstrual disorders without any effect on their health and academics.