Abstract:
Adolescent girls may enter into menarche without any basic information
about menstruation. This can make it challenging for them to efficiently manage
their periods. It can also result in low confidence levels and deny them the free will
to participate in social activities. This study, examined menstrual hygiene
management practices and adolescents’ social interactions in the Kassena Nankana
East Municipality of the Upper East Region of Ghana. The study used qualitative
design, adopting the interpretivist paradigm. Data from adolescent girls aged 10 to
19 were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The analysis was
presented with text and quotations using the thematic approach. The results found
reports of dysmenorrhea among menstruating girls, inadequate knowledge prior to
menarche, lack of financial support for girls to purchase menstrual hygiene
products, inadequate WASH facilities and widespread socio-cultural
misconception about menstruation and menstrual blood. It was also found that
menstruation restricts girls’ social interactions and school attendance. The findings
highlight the need for the provision of credible information on menstruation,
WASH facilities and proper financial support to be able to buy basic hygiene
products for both in-and-out of school girls. Provision of free sanitary pads for in school adolescent girls is particularly essential.
