Awareness of Modern Menstrual care devices and their use among University Students

Menstruation, a natural process experienced by half the population, is often surrounded by social stigma and limited information regarding menstrual care. Disposable products are the market leader, but newer options like menstrual cups and period underwear are gaining traction. University students, as they navigate personal health practices, could benefit from understanding these modern menstrual care devices (MCDs). This study investigates university students' awareness and use of MCDs. It explores their current menstrual care routines, knowledge of alternative options, and factors influencing their adoption of these devices. To assess menstrual product use among 322 university students (aged 18-25), a self-developed and validated questionnaire was employed. This questionnaire underwent a three-phase development process: first, a comprehensive literature review identified the key areas to be covered. Second, interviews with participants and consultations with experts (physiotherapists) helped create specific questionnaire items. Finally, the Delphi method ensured content validity by sending the questionnaire to nine experts for review.The study surveyed 322 female university students. Pads were the dominant product (94.1%), with challenges like changing them during college hours (45%). While menstrual cups (19.5%) and reusable pads (23.3%) had lower current usage, a majority (67.6%) expressed interest in their cost and environmental benefits. Lack of awareness (37.9%) was identified as a barrier, but a significant portion (77.6%) of students were interested in switching to MCDs. This study highlights the potential for MCD adoption among university students. Pads remain dominant, but interest in alternatives exists due to cost, sustainability, and comfort concerns. Addressing awareness and cultural barriers could promote wider use of MCDs.

月经作为半数人群都会经历的自然生理过程，却往往背负着社会污名，且月经护理相关的科普信息相对匮乏。一次性经期用品占据市场主流，但月经杯、经期内裤等新型护理产品正逐渐获得市场认可。大学生在规划个人健康护理方案时，若能了解这类现代月经护理器具（Menstrual Care Devices, MCDs），将大有裨益。本研究旨在探究大学生对月经护理器具的认知与使用情况，剖析其当前的经期护理习惯、对替代护理产品的了解程度，以及影响其选用此类器具的各类因素。为评估322名年龄介于18至25岁的大学生对经期产品的使用情况，本研究采用了自行开发并经过信效度检验的问卷。该问卷历经三阶段开发流程：首先，通过全面的文献综述明确问卷需涵盖的核心内容；其次，结合对研究对象的访谈与专家（物理治疗师）咨询意见，设计具体的问卷条目；最后，通过德尔菲法将问卷提交给9位专家评审，以确保其内容效度。本次研究共调研了322名女大学生。卫生巾为主流使用产品（占比94.1%），受访者面临的主要挑战包括在校期间更换卫生巾不便（占比45%）。尽管月经杯（19.5%）与可重复使用卫生巾（23.3%）的当前使用率较低，但仍有67.6%的受访者表示，因这类产品在成本与环保层面的优势而对其感兴趣。认知不足（37.9%）被认为是使用新型器具的主要障碍，但仍有77.6%的学生表示愿意尝试更换为月经护理器具。本研究揭示了大学生群体采纳月经护理器具的潜在可能性。尽管卫生巾仍占据主流市场，但因成本、可持续性与舒适度等优势，大学生对替代护理产品的关注度与兴趣正逐步提升。若能针对性解决认知不足与文化层面的障碍，或将推动月经护理器具的更广泛使用。