Title: Practice Of Menstrual Hygiene Among Female Students In Kwara State School For Special Needs, Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: AKOREDE ABDULAZEEZ KAYODE
Isiaq Abdulmuhit Temitope
Akorede Adam Abiola
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 127-133
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
This study assessed the menstrual hygiene practices and sources of information among female students at Kwara State School for Special Needs in Ilorin, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with data collected from 50 female students using a structured questionnaire. The sample was selected through purposive stratified sampling to ensure representation across academic levels (SS1-SS3). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics (one-sample t-test) at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that 60% of respondents used commercial sanitary pads, while 26% relied on reusable cloth pads, and 12% used tissue paper. Most students (44%) changed their menstrual absorbents three times daily, and 56% bathed twice during menstruation. Pain relief methods included painkillers (50%), hot water (20%), and exercise (18%). Disposal practices varied, with 46% wrapping used materials in dustbins, while 28% burned them. All respondents practised genital washing during menstruation. Sources of menstrual information included family members (28%), teachers (18%), health workers (12%), and personal research/internet (14%). Hypothesis testing confirmed a significant practice of menstrual hygiene (p < 0.05, t = 54.21) and significant sources of information (p < 0.05, t = 26.90), leading to the rejection of both null hypotheses. The study concluded that while menstrual hygiene practices exist, gaps remain in optimal product use and disposal methods. Recommendations include intensified health education by healthcare providers and awareness campaigns via mass media to promote proper menstrual hygiene management.