Study on Knowledge and Atittude about Menstrual Cup and its usuage among Medical Students: A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction: Millions of women globally experience menstruation every month. It is a normal biological process.Inadequate menstrual management has long been a major health issue in low- and middle-income nations, but ithas only recently become a major public health concern. Females may manage menstruation with non-absorbent,unhygienic, and uncomfortable materials due to a lack of awareness, an unfavorable sociocultural environment,logistical and financial barriers, and a lack of a proper support system. Hence this study was undertaken to assessthe knowledge and attitude among medical students.Methodology: This study was conducted among 200 undergraduate female medical students , who were willingto participate in the study. Informed consent was taken and the oral questionnaire which consisted of sociodemographic data and questions regarding knowledge, attitude and practice was distributed. Descriptive analysiswas done by calculating the percentage.Results: 91% of the students were aware of the menstrual cup. A total of 168(84%) students said menstrual cupto be a safe device. A total of 171 (85.5%) students knew that the menstrual cup could be used among virgins.whereas 29 (14.5%) students were of the opinion that it cannot be used by virgins. 84(42%) of students had no ideaabout its associated with TSS (Toxic shock syndrome). 73(36.5%) of students knew that it is not associated withTSS.143(71.5%) said it can’t be used during postpartum and 112(56%) knew that it is used during bathing andswimming.134(67%) students knew that it can’t be used as contraceptives and 88(44%) told it won’t cause ruptureof hymen.Finally in this study we came to know that none of them are using menstrual cup because majority ofthem said that they had fear of using 92(46%) and 51(25.5%) of them said they don’t have adequate knowledge.Conclusion :In this study all the students used sanitary pads, owing to its popularity and promotion. Therewas lack of awareness about the cup and there exists a huge gap between the knowledge and willingness of thestudents to accept the menstrual cup. So, we conclude that menstrual cup needs promotion in India because itis cost effective, eco-friendly and reusable. So, we boost the adoption rate of menstrual cups, youth should betargeted, who are more open to the idea of environment-friendly products.