ASSESSMENT OF MENSTRUAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT, LEARNING ATTITUDES AND RETENTION OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BWARI AREA COUNCIL, FCT ABUJA

Abstract

Adolescent girls' menstrual health management (MHM) significantly influences their school attendance, classroom participation, and retention in school, yet remains inadequately supported in many educational settings. This study assessed menstrual health management, learning attitudes and retention of adolescent girls in secondary schools in Bwari area council, FCT, Abuja ,Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 276 female students drawn from a population of 463 adolescent girls using multistage sampling technique through a 21- item questionnaire titled Menstrual Health and School Experience Questionnaire (MHSEQ).The reliability of the instrument was established using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, resulting in a reliability coefficient of 0.78. The data was analysed using SPSS. Findings revealed that while a majority of the respondents had access to sanitary pads (Mean = 1.77) and essential hygiene facilities like water and soap (Mean = 1.70), significant gaps remained in areas such as teacher support (Mean = 2.83) and the availability of clean, private toilets (Mean = 2.82). The study also found that menstruation adversely affects girls’ concentration, participation, and overall comfort in school, with many reporting discomfort attending school during their period (Mean = 2.81) and reduced classroom engagement (Mean = 2.35). Moreover, a substantial proportion of students had missed school due to lack of menstrual products (Mean = 3.10) and fear of embarrassment (Mean = 3.02). The study concludes by recommending comprehensive menstrual hygiene education, better facilities, and stronger support from school authorities to foster a more inclusive and conducive learning environment for girls.