Use of feminine hygiene products in Thai women.

ABSTRACT

Objective: To determine the prevalence and explore the knowledge, attitude and practice of using feminine hygiene products in Thai women. Methods: A survey was conducted between May and August 2009 in 400 Thai women between the ages of 20-35 who attended at Siriraj Gynecological clinic. Questionnaires dealing with knowledge, attitudes and practice were completed and data were collected and analyzed. Results: The mean age of participants was 28.5 + 4.2 years. The prevalence of participants who have ever used feminine wash and vaginal douche were 70.5% and 14.25%, respectively. To get rid of an unpleasant odor, and feeling clean and fresh were the most common reasons for using both products. The most common timing of using feminine wash was after period, after bath and when having unpleasant odor, whereas having leucorrhea and unpleasant odor were noted in vaginal douche group. Significant association between use of vaginal douche and an experience of sexual intercourse was observed (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Use of feminine hygiene products, especially feminine wash, was quite popular in Thai women. To get rid of unpleasant odor as well as to feel clean and fresh were common reasons for using this product. Recommendations by gynecologists about appropriate use of feminine hygiene products should be carefully considered in daily practice.