Indigenous Practice used during menstrual period among Saudi girls in Riyadh City.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the indigenous menstrual hygiene practices of Saudi girls in Riyadh. A total of 600 girls aged from 11 years to 18 years were selected from outpatient clinics at three different hospitals in Riyadh. Data were collected using a structured interview. The results revealed that nearly two-thirds of the girls avoided certain foods, drinks, and activities, including showering and performing perineal care, and practiced several indigenous rituals during the period. Mothers, religious books and sisters were the main sources of the girls’ information. The study suggests that nurses and health care providers should use all available opportunities to educate young girls about menstruation.