Keywords

menstrual health education; schools; anxiety; self-efficacy; nursing

Abstract

A significant global knowledge gap exists for adolescent girls regarding what constitutes a healthy menstrual cycle, proper menstrual hygiene practices, and the implications of reproductive maturity that is ushered in by menarche. This limited understanding can lead to poor health outcomes and the development of negative sentiments and beliefs surrounding the normal experience of menstruation.

This systematic review aims to comprehensively investigate the current state of research regarding the effects of school-based, formal menstruation education programs on adolescent girls, particularly the effects on anxiety and self-efficacy related to the management of menstruation. Furthermore, this work aims to take a stance on the usefulness of the school in delivering this education and apply it to the broader context of public health promotion.

A multi-database, systematic literature review was conducted to fulfill the purposes of this current project, utilizing CINAHL Ultimate and MEDLINE databases.

Findings show that formal, school-based menstruation education programs are effective in promoting positive outcomes in adolescent girls approaching menarche and currently undergoing menstruation, including increased self-efficacy and reduced anxiety. The research also suggests that the school is a valuable, centralized vector for the delivery of this education. Nurses play a pivotal role in advocating for the advancement of these initiatives.

Thesis Completion Year

2025

Thesis Completion Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair

Loerzel, Victoria & Snyder, Sara

College

College of Nursing

Department

Nursing Practice

Thesis Discipline

Nursing

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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Rights Statement

In Copyright