A study of demographic profile and menstrual morbidities among adolescent female patients visiting a tertiary care center

Abstract

Aim

(1) To study the demographic profile, prevalence and type of menstrual morbidities among 13-19 year adolescent females attending gynecology outpatient department (OPD) at a tertiary care government general hospital in an urban area.

(2) To study the awareness on physical changes and menstruation in adolescent girls in the urban area.

(3) To assess their knowledge on contraceptive methods.

(4) To study hygiene practices followed during menstruation.

(5) To Treat the patients and suggest suitable recommendations based on study fi ndings, for the future.

Background

The Latin word “Adolescere” means to grow to maturity. One 5th of the world population is between 10 and 19 years old and 85% of them live in developing countries. There are very few studies on prevalence and pattern of gynecological health morbidities among late adolescent female patients.

Materials and Methods

It is a Prospective Observational Clinical Study in a Tertiary care Centre and Teaching Institute in Urban India. Variables observed were socio-demography, menstrual morbidities, and knowledge about contraception, in study patients. Chi-square test of signifi cance was applied where relevant.

Results

Of 120, maximum patients were unmarried from low socioeconomic, large (more than 4) family. The literacy rate was 70%. Of 120 patients, maximum (34%) attained menarche at 12 years, 62% had regular cycles and most of them used homemade cloth for hygiene during menses. The most common menstrual morbidity was dysmenorrhea (73%). The most common premenstrual symptom was pain in the abdomen. Thirty-four percent patients had moderate to severe anemia. 40% girls had some knowledge about contraception and most of them acquired it from Television. The most known method of contraception was OC pills and all patients with the knowledge felt it is available at all hospitals and chemists.

Conclusion

Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health OPD services are needed at all women care centers as these group of patients need special attention for their complaints and focused care and counseling of these young patients would be a great investment for future health of them and their families and the society and nation as a large.