Determinants of Menstrual Hygiene Management Practices Among Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is critical for adolescents’ health and well-being; however, challenges such as limited water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, stigma, and lack of education persist in low- and middle-income countries. In Indonesia, most studies have focused on knowledge and attitudes rather than the determinants of practices, leaving this area underexplored.Purpose: This study aimed to identify the determinants of menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescents.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted online with 365 female adolescents recruited through purposive sampling. Data collection tools included the Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and demographic questionnaires. Associations were analyzed using independent t-tests, Pearson correlations, and linear regression.Results: Bivariate analysis showed that higher MHM scores were significantly associated with age (r=0.290; p=0.000), age at menarche (r=0.173; p=0.001), education level (r=0.288; p=0.000), menstrual cycles (r=0.122; p=0.020), employment (r=0.277; p=0.000), family income (r=0.130; p=0.013), and place of residence (r=0.132; p=0.012). In contrast, a history of dysmenorrhea was negatively associated with MHM practices (r=-0.159; p=0.002). Linear regression analysis revealed that menstrual cycle (B=0.408; p=0.028) was a significant positive predictor of MHM, while a history of dysmenorrhea (B=-0.160; p=0.020) was a significant negative predictor.Conclusion: Menstrual hygiene management was generally good among adolescents. Significant determinants included menstrual cycle length and history of dysmenorrhea. The findings underscore the importance of addressing biological and physiological factors in menstrual health education. Public health programs should also integrate menstrual cycle education and dysmenorrhea management strategies to improve hygiene practices.