Published Paper Details:

Menstrual Health Management (MHM) remains a crucial determinant of public health and gender equality within higher education. Despite increasing policy related to menstrual health, persistent barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and inadequate facilities continue to constrain effective management of menstruation among students in India. This study critically examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of female students toward MHM at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), Hyderabad. Employing a structured KAP framework and a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 200 students across diverse academic programmes and analyzed using descriptive and thematic methods. Findings reveal that while 78% of respondents' demonstrated moderate knowledge of menstruation, 15% was highly informed, and 7% low. Although 79% perceived it as a natural biological process, misconceptions regarding diet, exercise, and social participation persist. Approximately 68% used sanitary pads, 8% menstrual cups, and 5% tampons, whereas 41% reported absenteeism linked to pain, stigma, or lack of facilities. The study underscores institutional inadequacies, gender-sensitive policies, awareness initiatives, and improved infrastructure to enhance menstrual dignity, reproductive rights, and gender equality.