Prevalence and Correlates of Menstrual Irregularities Among Young Women in India: Findings from the Fifth Round National Family Health Survey

The study aims to investigate the prevalence of menstrual irregularities and their correlates among young women in India. A total of 226,603 women (aged 15–24 years) were included in the analysis from the National Family Health Survey (2019–2021). A bivariate chi-square test was used to present the percentage distribution of menstrual irregularities by background characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the predictors associated with menstrual hygiene practices. It was revealed that about 7.2% of women reported having menstrual irregularities in India. Mizoram has the highest prevalence (17.5%) of menstrual irregularities. Results from the multivariable logistic regression delineate that women with diabetes (OR: 1.67; CI: 1.35–2.05) and thyroid (OR: 1.18; CI: 1.00–1.40) reported more menstrual irregularities compared to those who do not have. Similarly, the probability of menstrual irregularities is significantly higher among married women (OR: 6.21; CI: 5.92–6.50) and those who use unhygienic menstrual products (OR: 1.40; CI: 1.35–1.46). The study revealed that socioeconomically poor women have a higher prevalence of self-reported menstrual irregularities. Women should eat healthy meals and maintain the hygienic practices necessary during menstruation.