Authors : Ramathuba Dorah Ursula and Ramathuba Mukovhe Khathutshelo Maud
Abstract: Menarche is an important developmental milestone indicating a fully developed reproductive ability, however, varying proportions of different menstrual associated disorders have been reported in both developed and developing countries. The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of menstrual disorders and treatment practices among adolescents in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study used a quantitative cross-sectional design using a questionnaire. Two hundred and seventy three respondents from selected secondary-schools, doing grades 10-12 were randomly sampled. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23. The findings revealed that a high percentages of menstrual problems with 65% having experienced dysmenorrhea, 42% premenstrual dysphoric disorder as well as irregular menstrual cycle which affected their social life and lead to 68% of school absenteeism and minority 25% sought professional assistance. Menstrual problems are significant source of morbidity and affect the quality of life and need prior mental preparation and menstrual education so as to timely exclude other pathological problems.
Ramathuba Dorah Ursula and Ramathuba Mukovhe Khathutshelo Maud, 2018. Prevalence of Menstrual Disorders among Adolescents in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The Social Sciences, 13: 735-739.