Factors affecting menstrual hygiene among women living in slum areas of Budanilakantha Municipality, Kathmandu.

Abstract

Menstruation is often stigmatized and poorly managed in low-income settings like Nepal, leading to health and social challenges. Women in urban slums face additional barriers due to poverty and limited sanitation. This study explores factors affecting menstrual hygiene practices among women in Budanilakantha slums to inform targeted interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 247 women aged 18-49 years in slum areas of Budanilakantha Municipality, Nepal. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected via a pretested questionnaire and analysed with chi-square tests. Ethical approval was obtained from Nobel College, Pokhara University. Among the 247 women surveyed, 53.8% used sanitary pads and 42.9% used reusable cloth materials (traditionally used fabric pieces) during menstruation. Most participants reported using soap and water for handwashing (66.8%) and external genital cleaning (82.6%), whereas only 38.9% bathed daily during menstruation. Nearly all participants (95.1%) experienced menstrual restrictions, and 57.1% reported being perceived as impure. Statistically significant associations were observed between menstrual hygiene-related awareness and both education and monthly income, while handwashing practice was significantly associated with ethnicity, occupation, and monthly income. These findings suggest that socio-economic conditions and cultural norms are key determinants of menstrual hygiene practices among women living in slum areas. Menstrual hygiene practices in Budanilakantha slum areas are influenced by socio-economic status, cultural taboos, and limited infrastructure. Although basic hygiene is practiced by many, cultural stigma and gaps in hygiene behaviours persist. Comprehensive interventions addressing education, water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure, and social norms are essential to improve menstrual health and dignity among marginalized women.