Cureus. 2026 Jun 10;18(6):e110582. doi: 10.7759/cureus.110582. eCollection 2026 Jun.
ABSTRACT
Introduction Menstrual cups are a safe, cost-effective, and sustainable menstrual hygiene product; however, their awareness and acceptability among adolescents remain low due to socio-cultural barriers and misconceptions. The study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, myths, and acceptability of menstrual cups among adolescent girls and to evaluate factors influencing their willingness to use them. Materials and methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 812 adolescent girls aged 13-19 years in Nagamangala taluk, Karnataka, from February to April 2026. Data were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Knowledge was categorized as adequate when >50% responses were correct. Associations were analyzed using the chi-squared test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results Awareness of menstrual cups was observed in 308 (37.9%) participants. Adequate knowledge was present in 342 (42.1%), while myths and misconceptions were reported by 498 (61.3%). The most common misconception was fear of pain during insertion 362 (44.6%). Overall, 548 (67.5%) participants expressed willingness to use menstrual cups. Awareness increased significantly with age (χ² = 9.82, p = 0.002). Willingness was significantly higher among those aware, 220 (71.4%), compared to those not aware, 328 (65.1%) (χ² = 4.21, p = 0.040). Adequate knowledge was associated with higher acceptability (χ² = 14.7, p < 0.001), while the presence of myths was associated with lower willingness (χ² = 41.6, p < 0.001). Conclusion Despite low awareness and prevalent misconceptions, the acceptability of menstrual cups was relatively high, particularly after exposure to appropriate information. Strengthening menstrual health education and addressing myths may improve the adoption of menstrual cups among adolescents.
PMID:42434676 | PMC:PMC13352334 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.110582
