Authors
Abstract
Introduction: Puberty is a beginning of significant developments to adolescents. This event is
associated with many changes in different aspects of an individual’s life. One of the changes is
menstruation. The first menstruation (or menarche) is a natural phenomenon and an important
occurrence in a girl’s life, but sometimes it involves physical disturbances and health challenges
that can have negative physical, mental and social effects. The literature indicates a strong
relationship between understanding menstruation and cultural backgrounds. This study was
carried out to explore the first menstruation experience among student girls.
Method: 17 student girls were selected by purposeful sampling from target high schools. For
data gathering, semi-structured interviews and the focus group method were used. The data
were analyzed through a qualitative content analysis based on Graham and landsman method.
Results: The findings of this study showed 5 themes including: inadequate readiness, paradox
feeling, numerous problems, support, and subjective and serious event occurrence.
Conclusion: The findings of this study gave a clear understanding of the menarche
phenomenon in student girls. This understanding can be enriched by future studies and
considering the above mentioned themes. These categories and themes can be used in
teaching girls, mothers and instructors. Hence, a better understanding of girls’ wishes and
concerns in this context is useful and vital..
Keywords
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