Knowledge of and attitudes towards of menstrual disorders adults in north-eastern state of Peninsular Malaysia.

INTRODUCTION: In Malaysia, the prevalence of menstrual disorders among adolescents and young adults is high. However, most of them are not aware of the signs and symptoms of menstrual disorders in terms of medical issue as well as Islamic ruling. Awareness of the menstrual disorder symptoms is important so that early and appropriate treatment can be given.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to compare the knowledge and attitude of premarital men and women on menstrual disorders.

METHODS: This was a comparative cross sectional study conducted in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Selfadministered questionnaires were given for data collection. The questionnaires consisted of 3 parts that required information on the women's and men's socio-demographic data, women's menstrual history and information in knowledge and attitude of men and women on menstrual disorders.

RESULTS: A total of 460 respondents were involved in this study with a response rate of 93.5%. The prevalence of good knowledge was higher among women compared to men with 73.2% and 26.8%, respectively. There was a significant difference on knowledge and attitude on menstrual disorders between premarital men and women.

CONCLUSION: Both premarital men and women had low knowledge on menstrual disorder with men knowing less than the women.