ABSTRACT
This Cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted amongst 550 secondary school girls in southeastern Nigeria to determine their perceptions; problems; and practices on menstruation. Majority of the students; (75.6); were aged 15-17 years. Only 39.3perceived menstruation to be physiological. Abdominal pain/discomfort; (66.2); was the commonest medical problem encountered by the respondents; although 45.8had multiple problems. Medical problems were most commonly discussed with the mother; (47.1); and least commonly discussed with the teachers; 0.4. Analgesics; (75.6); were most commonly used to relieve menstrual pain. Only 10of respondents used non pharmacologic remedies. Unsanitary menstrual absorbents were used by 55.7of the respondents. Menstruation perceptions are poor; and practices often incorrect. A multi-dimensional approach focusing on capacity building of mothers; and teachers on sexuality education skills; using religious organizations as avenues for sexuality education; and effectively using the Mass Media as reproductive health education channels are recommended towards improving adolescents' perceptions and practices on menstruation