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Abstract

Background: Menstruation is still regarded as something unclean or dirty in the Indian society. Because of various myths, misconceptions and restrictions practiced during menstruation, the adolescent girls often develop negative attitudes towards this natural physiological phenomenon. Majority of the girls lack scientific knowledge about menstruation and puberty. Aim: To assess the awareness regarding menstruation, menstrual problems, hygiene, serious gynaecological conditions in high school going girls in rural Maharashtra, India. Material and Methods: In this cross sectional community based study, a total of 240 high school girls from 8th to 10th standard were assessed for knowledge and impact of gynaecological problems. A predesigned questionnaire was developed. Results: Majority (84%) of adolescent girls participating in study attend school during menses. 16% girls were absent in school during menstruation and most common reason for absence being pain in abdomen (87%), followed by bleeding (08%). Majority 226 (94%) girls participating in study do not have any restriction to follow during menses. There is lack of knowledge regarding sex education and prevention of Ca cervix in adolescent girls. Conclusion: There is a certain awareness regarding menstruation and related adolescent problems in rural high school girls. Awareness regarding prevention of carcinoma cervix and its prevention as well as sex education is almost non-existent.