Menstrual Disorders and Care Options Among Female Students of Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, Kwara State

Abstract

The menstrual cycle is an important indicator of normal development, beginning at menarche, and menstrual disorders can have significant physical and psychological effects. These conditions often contribute to school absenteeism and challenges for adolescents and their families. This study assessed menstrual disorders and care options among female students of Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 408 female students selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire and analysed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22, with results presented using frequency distribution tables.Findings showed that 48% of respondents were 200-level students, 78% were from monogamous families, and 95% belonged to the Yoruba ethnic group. Approximately 80% of participants experienced lower abdominal pain and facial skin changes, had menstrual flow lasting 2–7 days, and reported cycle lengths of 24–38 days. Additionally, 43% experienced nausea and vomiting. Regarding management practices, 68.4% of respondents sought medical care and frequently visited hospitals to cope with menstrual disorders. Age was significantly associated with menstrual regularity (χ² = 38.063, p < 0.001). The predominant care options adopted included the use of medications and food faddism. The study recommends the provision of comprehensive menstrual hygiene education through inclusive curricula by the government to support adolescent health and wellbeing.