KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF VULVA HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG NURSING STUDENTS IN BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

Abstract

This descriptive cross-sectional study investigated the knowledge and practice of vulva hygiene among 245 nursing students at Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State. Data were collected online via Google Forms with a 100% response rate and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. Findings revealed that 90% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of vulva hygiene (mean = 3.89), with strong understanding of fundamental concepts including proper definitions (96.7%), cleaning frequencies (98%), and infection prevention (98%). However, knowledge gaps existed regarding douching risks (77.6% correct) and infection symptom recognition (75.1% correct). Regarding practice, 78% exhibited good vulva hygiene behaviors, with commendable adherence to daily underwear changes (95.1%) and cotton underwear use (86.9%). Problematic practices included excessive vulva washing (49.4%) and wearing tight-fitting clothing (73.1%). Primary information sources were classroom lectures (95.9%), social media (96.7%), and parents (93.9%). The main barriers identified were lack of proper knowledge (98.4%) and communication discomfort (90.6%), while resource-related barriers were minimal. All proposed improvement strategies received overwhelming support (96.8-98.8%), particularly curriculum integration (98.4%). A significant relationship was found between knowledge and practice (χ² = 7.85, p = 0.019). The study concludes that while nursing students possess good baseline knowledge and practices, targeted interventions addressing specific gaps, correcting harmful behaviors, and fostering open communication are essential for optimal vulva health outcomes and professional preparedness. Keywords: Vulva hygiene, Knowledge, Practice, Nursing students, Reproductive health, Genital hygiene, Health education, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Nigeria