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ROMAR D. ALBERCA
MARK JAYSON E. ALISASIS
WARPELITO N. ANDO
CHRISTINE MARIE ANNTONIETTE C. GOMEZ
ROBERTO A. MANCAO JR.
October 2009
THE EFFECTS OF BATHING PRACTICES
DURING MENSTRUAL PERIOD
A THESIS PRESENTED TO
THE FACULTY OF THE NURSING DEPARTMENT
SOUTH PHILIPPINE ADVENTIST COLLEGE-
ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES,
CAMANCHILES, MATANAO DAVAO DEL SUR
ROMAR D. ALBERCA
MARK JAYSON E. ALISASIS
WARPELITO N. ANDO
CHRISTINE MARIE ANNTONIETTE C. GOMEZ
ROBERTO A. MANCAO JR.
October 2009
APPROVAL SHEET
This thesis attached hereto, entitled, “The Effects of Bathing Practices During
Jr., in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor of Science in
CONSORCIO S. LAVADOR, MS
Adviser
PANEL OF EXAMINERS
Science in Nursing.
Ph.D., Jee Ann M. Maratas, RN, MAN, Ph.D., and Bernard A. Cordita, MAT; the
members of the panel, for their unconditional commitment, dedication, and hard work,
To Consorcio S. Lavador, MS, many thanks for the assistance, advice and
To Karel Mei G. Navora, MALE, and Moises R. Perral, MALE, for the
would like to express their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for they were allowed to
To their parents, sincerest thanks and appreciation for the financial support and
fervent prayers, without them, their work would never come into reality;
Above all to God, the source of inspiration, wisdom, and saving grace, thanks be
to You.
DEDICATION
PAGE
APPROVAL SHEET ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iii
DEDICATION iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS v
LIST OF TABLES vii
LIST OF FIGURES viii
ABSTRACT x
CHAPTER
I INTRODUCTION 1
II THEORITICAL FRAMEWORK 7
Research Design 28
Locale of the Study 28
Respondents of the Study 30
Sampling Procedure 31
Data Gathering Procedure 31
Research Instrument 32
Statistical Treatment 33
Summary of Findings 45
Conclusions 46
Recommendations 47
BIBLIOGRAPHY 48
APPENDICES 52
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE PAGE
1 Distribution of Respondents 31
Period 36
FIGURE PAGE
1 Research Paradigm 25
APPENDIX PAGE
1 Survey Questionnaire 52
2 Communication Letter 54
3 Curriculum Vitae
4 Pictures
ABSTRACT
Alberca, R.D., Alisasis, M.J.E., Ando, W.N., Gomez, C.M.A.C., and Mancao,
Matanao, Davao del Sur. A descriptive type of research and a purposive sampling design
were used in this study. A self made questionnaire was used to gather the data.
The data shows that that an overall mean of 3.83 which means “Always” as a
response of the respondents indicates that women always take a bath during their
menstrual period. The mean score of 2.13 indicates that women sometimes when taking a
bath during menstruation, use warm/hot water, while the mean score of 3.03 shows that
An overall mean of 2.07 indicates that the women must be moderate in taking a
bath during their menstrual period to avoid the severe level of emotional manifestations.
The level of emotional manifestations in terms of using cool/tap water has an overall
mean of 2.05 and this indicates that women who take a bath using cool/tap water bath
The level of physical manifestations in terms of cool/tap water bath has an overall
mean of 2.04 which indicates that using such water during menstruation, there would be
has an overall mean of 2.23 which indicates that women who bathe with warm/hot water
during menstruation would have no severe physical manifestations while the level of
physical manifestations in terms of cool/tap water bath has an over all mean of 2.04
which indicates that women who take a bath using cool/tap water during menstruation
The study shows that there is no significant difference on the level of emotional
manifestations observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period
in terms of having warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath. Furthermore, it was also
found out that there is no significant difference on the level of physical manifestations
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms using
Therefore, based on the findings of the study, those women who have bathing
practices in terms of using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath during their
Based on the findings of the study, the following are the recommendations:
women are encouraged to take a bath during menstrual period to avoid severe level of
emotional and physical manifestations; second, the public health nurse and other health
care personnel must conduct community teachings that the practice of not taking a bath
during menstrual period for fear of having future complications is not true; and, they
must emphasize in their health teaching that women may and must take a bath during
menstruation.
On the other hand, the clinical instructors must stress out the effects of bathing
practices during menstrual period in their classes. And lastly, further study will be
conducted on the variables which are not included in the study such as the effects of
INTRODUCTION
Bathing is already a part of a human being’s life by the time he/she is born until
the time he/she grows and matures. This is due to hygienic purposes. Bathing is one of
the practices a person does everyday. In bathing, every person has his/her own preference
Bathe (2009) stressed further that bathing it is the most enjoyable time of the day
to a man’s life. Bathing charges body with both vitality and vigor, cleansing both body
and mind.
Bathing and menstruation are seemingly conflict with each other because some
women do not take a bath and others do take a bath during menstruation. Women have
different beliefs on bathing during menstrual period that’s why some of them do not take
But nowadays, many women practice bathing during their menstruation. They
found out that bathing during their menstrual period has a soothing effect in their body.
Some of them also found out that bathing during menstrual period makes them
menstruation.
symptoms that occur during menstruation have a different impact to each woman. This
impact or effect can range from a minor inconvenience to a major disruption. Some
women may find that their symptoms are severe enough to keep them from their daily
During menstruation a woman feels hot due to the hormonal changes happening
in her body, and bathing is the most convenient way to alleviate this discomfort. The
number of times a woman should take a bath in a day during menstrual period is a
personal choice as well as the temperature of the water to be used (Bate, 2009).
There are lot of wrong information and myths about menstrual period which
mislead the women of today. One of which is when a woman takes a bath during
menstrual period, she may develop a disease in the reproductive system. is a woman may
become crazy when she takes a bath during menstruation. Many women still believe this
wrong information and myths despite of the absence of evidence. These reasons opened
the interest of the researchers to have this study because their aim is to discover the
effects of bathing during menstrual period whether it could lessen or worsen the
their goal to provide factual information to the readers of this study about the effects of
The study discusses on how often should the women observe bathing practices
with warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath during menstruation. The study shows
also the effects of warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath during menstrual period
menstruation.
1. To what extent do women observe bathing practices with the use of:
2. What is the level of emotional manifestations observed by women who has bathing
3. What is the level of physical manifestations observed by women who has bathing
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in using
The main objective of the study is to determine the bathing practices using
different kinds of water temperature (warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath)
1. Identify what extent do women observe bathing practices using warm/hot water
bathing practices during menstrual period using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap
water bath.
bathing practices during menstrual period using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap
water bath.
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using
by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using warm/hot
The study was conducted to determine the effects of bathing practices during
menstruation. It was done to give additional information about the bathing practices
Women. This study would give factual information about the truth if bathing during
Community. The study would help the people understand that the notion on taking a
Public Health Nurse. The result of the study would give additional knowledge on the
health information drive of the public health nurse about the effects of warm/hot water
Clinical Instructors. The study would help the Clinical Instructors as they discuss the
class about the topic on menstruation. This would serve as one of the references the
Future Researchers. This would serve as a reference and a guide to the future
researchers on what variables they would include or focus as they conduct another study
The scope of the study is on the bathing practices of women during menstrual
period. Specifically, it discusses on the effects of warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water
Matanao, Davao del Sur. There were 30 respondents in this study: 15 of them are the
college women who take a bath with warm/hot water and the other 15 are those college
women who used to take a bath using cool/tap water during menstruation.
This study was limited only to the respondents whose age cluster from fifteen to
twenty one years old. In addition, this limits also on the discussion of emotional
menstrual period.
CHAPTER II
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
This chapter discusses on the review of related literature and studies, conceptual
framework, research paradigm, hypothesis of the study and the definition of terms.
Bathing
The skin is the first line of defense against microorganisms entering the body.
Thus, keeping skin intact and healthy is important in preventing infection. Increased
perspiration interacts with bacteria on the skin to cause body odor, which can be
offensive and promote bacterial growth. Regular bathing removes excess oil,
perspiration, and bacteria from the skin surface (Craven and Hirnle, 2007).
Ramont, Maldonado, and Towle (2006) stated in their book that bathing also
produces a sense of well being. It is refreshing and relaxing and frequently improves
morale, appearance, and self-respect. Some people take a morning shower for its
refreshing, stimulating effect. Others prefer an evening bath because it is relaxing. Criven
and Hirnle (2007) emphasized in their book that some people prefer to bathe in the
morning and others find that an evening bath is relaxing and promotes a good night’s
sleep.
The term bathing refers to “the art of cleansing one's body for hygienic or
therapeutic purposes.” It is a part of the daily activity of a human being and taking a bath
is usually necessary in order to prevent various germs and diseases from contaminating
the body. And hydrotherapy is a common means of bathing by which it is possible for
one to heal injuries or attain relaxation of the mind and body (http://
www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/bathing-and-cleansing-300031.html).
The use of water to stimulate healing may be the next-oldest form of medical
treatment. The hydrotherapy is among the treatments used in ancient Egypt and India and
civilization’s low-tech approach the promotion and preservation of health was strongly
history.html.
Hydrotherapy takes advantage of water's unique ability to store and transmit both cold
temperatures used during a treatment, the better the effects will be. Heat applied to the
skin draws blood to the surface temporarily, while cold water has the initial effect of
driving it away. The lasting effect is of warmth, since, by the laws of action and reaction,
blood must circulate back to the vessels and tissues it came from
(http://www.womensonlinespa.com/hydrotherapy_baths.htm states).
Taking a bath or shower during menstrual period is really important to keep clean
and to fight off any odors that may occur. Also, women tend to sweat more during their
period so taking a bath or a shower will also help them feel fresher
(http://www.kotexfits.com/faqs/menstruation/#a12).
Warm/Hot Water Bath
40.6°C. Hot baths or hot water showers can stimulate the immune system and increase
circulation. By soothing nerves, hot water calms and relaxes the body. Hot water can also
cleanse the skin, and moisturize it too; pores are opened and take in water. (http://www.
womenshealthcaretopics.com/bn_bodysoul_Benefits_Varying_water_temperatures.htm).
Hot water acts as a sedative on the sensory and motor nerves and relieves pains,
cramps and spasms. Hot water application can raise local temperatures, metabolic rate
and oxygen consumption, thus increasing blood volume and pulse rate (http://www.
lifepositive.com/Body/naturopathy/hydrotherapy/water-healing.asp).
Norton (2009) stressed out in his article that warm water helps to calm and relax
the body. By putting yourself in the warm water bath or shower, it helps to relieve the
tension of the body resulting in lessening the symptoms of anxiety, emotional and
The cold bath or showers which consists of temperatures varying from 10°C to
21°C may be used to stimulate a woman’s metabolism. Cold baths can wake both you
and your muscles up during morning hours, revitalize the body after work; help cool
down a sunburn and prevent it from penetrating to deeper layers of the skin, and it can
temporarily alleviate skin irritations such as insect bites and minor skin allergies
(http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/bn_bodysoul_Benefits_Varying_water_temper
atures.htm).
Norton (2009) stated, “Cold water reduces the inflammation or infection caused
bacteria and virus or forming of free radicals. By increasing the function of immune
A study performed at the University of Hull found the regime of cold showers taken by
athletes could reduce stress levels and create mental toughness. But a word of caution, be
sure that your heart, arteries and blood pressure can stand the shock. Because of the
sudden drop in body temperature, the increase in pulse and respiration, as well as the
dilation of blood vessels, this temperature should only be used for short periods of time,
not over 3 minutes, more as a dip than an actual immersion. After the cold water
experience, always towel dry completely and quickly. The use of cold water temperatures
(http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/bn_bodysoul_Benefits_Varying_water_temper
atures.htm).
Menstruation
menstruate, your body is shedding the lining of the uterus (womb). Menstrual blood
flows from the uterus through the small opening in the cervix, and passes out of the body
through the vagina. Most menstrual periods last from three to five days. Menstruation is
part of the menstrual cycle, which prepares your body for pregnancy each month. A cycle
is counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period. The average
menstrual cycle is 28 days long. Cycles can range anywhere from 21 to 35 days in adults
and from 21 to 45 days in young teens. Body chemicals called hormones rise and fall
gov/faq/menstruation.cfm).
Menstruation is the term given to the periodic discharge of blood, tissue, fluid and
mucus from the reproductive organs of sexually mature females. The flow usually lasts
from 3 - 6 days each month and is caused by a sudden reduction in the hormones estrogen
and progesterone. It is the hormones that govern this process. Hormones are a chemical
substance, produced by an organ, gland or special cells, that is carried through the
bloodstream to regulate the activity of certain organs. It is the balance and interplay
between these hormones which regulate the specific events that make up the menstrual
cycle (http://www.menstruation.com.au/periodpages/menstrualcycles.html).
The area of the brain called the hypothalamus, together with the pituitary gland,
control the hormones necessary for reproductive health. Six hormones serve as chemical
estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. During menstrual cycle, GnRH is released first
by the hypothalamus. This causes a chemical reaction in the pituitary gland and
stimulates the production of FSH and LH. Estrogen, progesterone, and are produced by
the ovaries in reaction to stimulation by FSH and LH. When these hormones work in
hinder their daily activity. These manifestations are grouped into two: physical
these symptoms fall into one of two categories: physical or emotional. Some of the
emotional symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle are depression, angry outburst,
knowmycycle.com/menstrual-symptoms.aspx).
Irritability
these people feel stressed, impatient or might easily become angry. Irritability is a kind of
Hutchinson and Love (2009) emphasize in their article that the primary
Fluctuating estrogen levels have a direct, though complex, effect on the brain's regulation
of mood and emotion. Thus, changing levels of estrogen in the body can increase the risk
of experiencing irritability.
Insomnia
staying asleep that makes people feel as if they’ve had insufficient sleep when they
awaken. Insomnia isn’t a disease—it’s a symptom that has many different causes,
Insomnia is the inability to sleep when sleep should normally occur. Insomnia
may stem from a disruption of the body's circadian rhythm, an internal clock that governs
the timing of hormone production, sleep, body temperature, and other functions
(http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/insomnia-000096.htm).
menstruation, causing insomnia. When they rise during ovulation, women may become
Michaud and Julie (2009) stressed out in their article that many women will have
trouble sleeping due to bloating, breast tenderness, backaches, or pelvic aches and pains
during their periods. It is also associated with a rapid drop in the hormone progesterone.
Progesterone is a soporific, a sedative-type drug that your body gives you every month
when you ovulate. Then, just before the period, its production either slows to a trickle or
falls dramatically.
Loneliness
regardless of age or ethnicity. Whether one is a PhD or high school dropout, rich or poor,
isolation or separation from others, a feeling of being all alone (http://www. personal-
development.com/chuck).
and solitude. Loneliness is more than the feeling of wanting company or wanting to do
something with another person. Someone who is lonely may find it hard to form human
contact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loneliness).
with physical discomforts explaining the association with crying. Crying is generally
associated with distress and discomfort, and is also part of the premenstrual syndrome in
During no phase of the menstrual cycle, actual crying episodes nor crying
proneness was increased, although significant changes in mood were reported. Crying
was expected to vary across the menstrual cycle with variations in mood, in direct
response to physical symptoms including pain and discomfort associated with the
Mood Swing
incomprehensible. In some situations, women might not know why they are sad or angry
evolutionary purpose by helping to get them pregnant. Levels of sex hormones such as
During the follicular phase at the start of the cycle, the egg is maturing and the body
releases oestrogen, while during the luteal phase, when a fertilised egg might implant,
On the other hand, Hutchinson and Love (2009) stressed out that menstrual mood
swings causes are usually divided into two: psychological and physical. However, it's
generally accepted that physical causes are responsible for these menstrual mood swings.
Psychological causes for menstrual mood swings are grouped in two, the ones
related to maniac disorders which are really uncommon, and the ones related to life
stresses. The first ones are characterized because they are rare hereditary diseases
provoked by chemical imbalance in the brain. The second group is related to daily stress,
overwork and fatigue, which can make them lose emotional stability. Either way, keep in
mind that the physical causes for menstrual mood swings are much more likely to
happen.
Physical causes for menstrual mood swings: hormones like estrogen and
progesterone have a definite effect on your mental state and produce menstrual mood
swings since they regulate serotonin levels in your brain, which is the chemical that
manipulates mood. Your humor will go along with your serotonin levels. So, If your
serotonin happens to drop, so will your mood; and if it rises, your mood will too.
Therefore, mood swings appear when your serotonin is not controlled properly.
Physical Manifestations
Physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the menstrual cycle can
impact each woman differently. They can range from a minor inconvenience to a major
disruption. Some women may find that their symptoms are severe enough to keep them
from their daily activities. Some of the common physical symptoms associated with the
menstrual cycle are breast tenderness, bloating, headache, swelling of extremities, and
cramps (http://www.knowmycycle.com/menstrual-symptoms.aspx).
menstrual cycle. These symptoms are breast tenderness, bloating, headache, backache,
Headache
Most women have a number of symptoms during their monthly menstrual cycle
and one of them is the menstrual headache. It is believed that about 60 per cent of women
will suffer from menstrual headaches out of which approximately 10 per cent only will
(http://www.frequentheadache.net/types/menstrual_headaches.php).
Headache is defined as pain in the head or upper neck. It is one of the most
common locations of pain in the body and has many causes (Wedro, 2009). Headaches
are among the most common medical problems. Some people have headaches often,
while others hardly ever have them. Both chronic and recurring headaches may be painful
and distressing but rarely reflect a serious medical condition. (Orlandi, Prere, and Speace,
1989).
Menstrual headaches are primarily caused by estrogen, the female sex hormone
that specifically regulates the menstrual cycle fluctuations throughout the cycle. When
the levels of estrogen and progesterone change, women will be more vulnerable to
headaches (http://www.depression-guide.com/headaches/menstrual-headache.htm).
Women experience a great change in the levels of hormones during the menstrual period,
progesterone and estrogen decline in the late stages of the cycle, which works as a trigger
headaches.php).
Breast Tenderness
According to Susan and Love (2009) that a lot of women will probably have
disturbed by breast tenderness, and it can turn much worse if not given the necessary
effectively.
Susan and Love (2009) discuss further that breast tenderness can be explained as
pain, soreness or any discomfort in the breasts. Also, breast tenderness is generally
will suffer severe breast tenderness when approaching menopause (this includes during
hormone estrogen may cause one or both breasts to swell and become tender. Discomfort
supported by Storck (2008) that breast tenderness may range from mild to severe.
Symptoms typically peak just before each menstrual period and improve immediately
Most of the cases, unbalanced level of estrogen hormones is the main cause for breast
The most common cause for breast tenderness during menstruation periods is
hormonal imbalance. During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels vary
in different ways. Normally, when estrogen is down and progesterone is up, breasts get
bigger in size. But, hormonal imbalance could alter this cycle, making breasts even
bigger, more susceptible to pain, and for more prolonged periods. Therefore, when
hormones are not balanced and estrogen levels decrease more than progesterone ones, it
women during their periods. The cause of bloating during menstruation is believed to be
does_5326950_causes-bloating-during-menstruation.html).
Orlandi, Prere, and Speace (1989) stated, “Bloating is caused by fluid retention.
The mechanics are that estrogen, an important hormone in the menstrual cycle, interferes
with your body’s ability to flush out excess water by urination. When this water stays in
Estrogen is important for a couple of reasons. First of all, it has an effect on the
retention of water that occurs naturally as part of a woman´s menstrual cycle. Women
tend to retain more in the days leading up to menstruation as a result of the rising
Backache
Lower back pain during menstruation is one of the most common occurrences
among women. There could be more than one reason for women suffering from back
pain (http://health.top54u.com/post/Lower-Back-Pain-During-Menstruation.aspx).
Back muscle pain can be caused by the same hormonal changes that cause
abdominal cramping during the period. Chemicals called prostaglandins are responsible
for promoting uterine contractions during menstruation. These same chemicals can cause
havoc throughout the body and especially in the lower back muscles (http://www.cure-
back-pain.org/menstrual-back-pain.html).
Constipation
Orlandi, Prere, and Speace (1989) stated that constipation is often a problem
too.
Many women experience constipation just before and during menstruation. The
reasons for this condition before periods are numerous - but correctable (http://www.
During the menstrual cycle, the body goes through certain hormonal changes.
There is a surge of progesterone just before the onset of menstruation and the
progesterone level falls when the menstrual flow starts. Progesterone causes delayed
gastrointestinal transit time, meaning that it slows down the gut and hence aggravates
constipation. With the fall in progesterone, there is an increase in bowel activity, which is
why your constipation goes away with the start of the menses (Shea, 2009).
Changes in Appetite
buy certain snacks. A food craving is an insistent desire for a type of food (eg. candy,
loss/food-cravings.htm).
Changes in hormones can cause food craving. Menstruation can also trigger food
craving (http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Why_do_you_get_constipation_before_menstruation
). The fact that the strongest food cravings occur in the week prior to menstruation, or
during pregnancy, suggests that hormonal swings have an influence on this type of urge
to eat (http://www.tinajuanfitness.info/articles/art040699.html).
Acne
Berkow (1997) mentioned in his book that acne is a common skin condition in
which the skin pores become clogged, leading to pimples and inflamed, infected
abscesses (collection of pus). Acne may appear with each menstrual period in young
blackheads, and pimples. The oil glands, or sebaceous glands, are connected to hair
follicles and release a substance known as sebum that lubricates hair and skin. Usually,
sebum travels up the hair follicle and out onto your skin. But when the sebaceous glands
produce too much oil that combines with dead skin cells, the follicles become blocked
One of the risk factors of acne is hormonal changes which are common during
According to Jones (2008) in his article, “For women, one of the most likely times
to develop acne other than pregnancy is during menstruation. It is very common to have
breakouts of acne during menstruation, and this usually occurs on the lower face, chin
and jawline.”
Studies of menstruation-age women have shown that acne lesions tend to become
more prominent in the week before menstruation, and remain more prominent for 7 to 10
days. The lesions usually return to premenstruation appearance after the menstruation
menstruation.htm).
Jones (2008) stressed out that acne during menstruation is mainly caused due to
hormonal fluctuations that occur in women’s body during the menstrual cycle. Many
women may feel embarrassed about this condition because they don't want a sign for
everyone telling them 'it's that time' again. This is especially true for women who only
develop acne during the menstrual cycle. However, a few lifestyle changes now can
Acne at this time is mainly influenced by androgens which are hormones that stimulate
the sebaceous glands and hair follicles in the skin. One of the major players that can
affect the levels of androgens is stress. Thus high stress levels can promote further acne
flare ups. This is a vicious circle, because the appearance of acne may increase a woman's
stress levels.
Any major player in causing acne can be diet. Studies have shown that acne
occurs more frequently during the week before menstruation and these conditions remain
lowered energy level. This should be distinguished from drowsiness, which implies an
actual urge to sleep. Fatigue involves lack of energy rather than sleepiness.
Hormones also play a role in regulating the sleep cycle. These fluctuations will
also affect a woman´s ability to get a good night of rest, leading to fatigue in the morning
(http://www.34-menopause-symptoms.com/fatigue.htm).
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps are pains in the abdominal (belly) and pelvic areas that are
experienced by a woman as a result of her menstrual period. Menstrual cramps can range
from mild to quite severe. Mild menstrual cramps may be barely noticeable and of short
duration - sometimes felt just as a sense of light heaviness in the belly. Severe menstrual
cramps can be so painful that they interfere with a woman's regular activities for several
Menstrual cramps are caused by uterine contractions (when your uterus tightens
and relaxes allowing blood to leave your uterus). The lining of your uterus releases
special chemicals called "prostaglandins". These substances can increase the intensity of
menstrual8.html).
Almost every woman who menstruates will experience some type of menstrual
cramp during her periods. They can range from very mild to debilitating. As many as one
in four women experience such severe menstrual cramps that they need to call in sick for
Conceptual Framework
This study is based on the theory of hydrotherapy, focuses on two properties such
as water temperature and buoyancy. First, water is an excellent substance with which to
carry temperature through. It can retain cold and heat in a form that can easily be applied
to the body. These temperatures then affect the ways in which the body works. In
particular, temperature helps to aid in the dilation and constriction of blood vessels. This
change in the blood vessels allows for improved circulation, better waste removal, and
faster healing.
Second, water also appears to be an effective pain reliever because of the buoyancy it
offers. Water helps to support all areas of the body, contributing to reduce muscle and
joint strain while invigorating muscles. The natural movement of water also helps to
stimulate touch receptors in your skin. This causes your body to produce electronic
impulses, which trigger the release of various chemicals and hormones. These hormones
reduces body weight by approximately 35-30%, relieving pressure on joints and muscles,
Menstrual Manifestations
• Emotional Manifestations
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Loneliness
• Tendency to cry easily
• Mood swing
Bathing Practices
• Physical Manifestations
• Warm/Hot Water Bath
• Headache
• Cool/Tap Water Bath
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal bloating
• Backache
• Constipation
• Changes in Appetite
• Acne
• Fatigue
• Menstrual Cramps
Figure 1: Research Paradigm showing the Independent and Dependent Variables of the
Study
Hypotheses
The following hypotheses of the study are stated in the null and alternative forms:
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms
Definition of Terms
Backache. This word refers to pain in the lumbar, lumbosacral, or cervical region of the
bowels.
Emotional manifestation. This word refers to emotional signs and symptoms that occur
during menstruation.
Fatigue. This word defines as physical or mental weariness resulting from exertion.
Insomnia. This refers to the inability to obtain an adequate amount or quality of sleep.
Loneliness. This word pertains to the state of being alone in solitary isolation.
Menstrual cramps. This word refers to abdominal pain that may range from a colicky
Physical manifestation. This pertains to physical signs and symptoms that occur during
menstruation.
Tendency to cry easily. This word defines as manifestation which the person tends to
cry easily
Warm water bath. This word pertains to bath using warm water.
CHAPTER III
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the research methodology of the study. It also includes the
research design, locale of the study, respondents of the study, sampling procedure, data
Research Design
the present situations, or groups, and/or frequency with which certain phenomena occur
(Nieswiadomy, 2008).
Davao City at barangay Camanchiles, Matanao, Davao del Sur. The college fronts the
The college campus occupies approximately 2.5 hectares of the 19.9 hectares of
the former Southern Mindanao Academy land. Some portions of the campus are planted
with tar-apples, and fruit bearing trees, which have provided additional income for the
school. The remainder of the lands is utilized for the other purposes including sugar cane,
mangoes and a banana plantation along the creek and property boundaries.
The large building fronting the national highway is the newly renovated
administration building, which houses the administration offices, college classrooms and
auditorium. Dormitories for the students are located one in the east and two in the west of
the administration building in which both college and high school students are housed.
There is also the white house to accommodate the lady – working students.
At the left side are the high school classrooms and at the right side are the AB
theology building and the Nursing Fundamental Laboratory. Other buildings in the
campus include the library, cafeteria, science laboratory, faculty homes, and college
canteen.
SPAC that nurtures excellence offers in demand and quality education to all
students. The school’s program includes the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of
The respondents of the study were 30 college women, all enrolled in South
Philippine Adventist College. Their age ranges from fifteen to twenty one years old.
Fifteen of them practice warm/hot water bath during their menstrual period while the
Sampling Procedure
The study employed the purposive sampling design with which “the researchers
selects and studies a specific number of a special group that represents the target
Purposive sampling starts with a purpose in mind and the sample is thus
selected to include people of interest and exclude those who do not suit the purpose.
The respondents are chosen because they practice bathing during menstrual period
Before the study was conducted, a formal communication letter was prepared and
namely Dr. Jimmy F. Faderogaya (Dean of Academic Affairs) and Dr. Chliejvferwyn C.
Catolico (College President) to ask for permission and approval regarding the distribution
of the questionnaires to the respondents. The purpose of the study was then explained
carefully and accurately to the respondents. After gathering the needed information, the
questionnaires were retrieved, tabulated, tallied and were subjected to statistical analysis
and interpretation.
Research Instrument
The questionnaire has two pages and it consists of two parts. In part one, it has
four entries which the respondents would answer yes or no in the first question. In the
second to fourth question of part one, the respondents would rate with always,
sometimes, seldom, or never. Name, course and year level were included in the first part
of the survey. In the second part of the questionnaire, it consists of 15 entries that the
respondents would rate from one to four in which 1-means none, 2- means mild, 3-means
Validity
After the researchers made the questionnaire, they submitted it to the instructor
for checking and editing. All suggestions were taken by the researchers. And then, it was
The questionnaire was pre-tested after it was checked. The result was tallied and it
was submitted and analyzed. It was found out that the instrument is valid.
Reliability
The pre-test was conducted, and the results were tallied and submitted for the
statistical treatment to determine the reliability of the instrument used, and it was found
The data gathered from the questionnaires were summarized, tabulated and
percentage, mean and t-test concerning the means of independent samples. In order to
identify the extent of the women’s bathing practices using warm/hot water bath and
cool/tap water bath, the mean is being applied. Furthermore, to determine the level of
menstrual period in terms of using cool/tap water bath and warm water bath, mean is also
used. Again, mean is used to determine the level of physical manifestations observed by
women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms of using cool/tap
menstrual period using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath, the t-test of
level of physical manifestations observed by women who have bathing practices during
menstrual period using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath, the t-test of
This chapter shows the tabulated data of the patient’s regular menstruation and
their bathing practices during menstruation using warm/hot water and cool/tap water. It
also explains on the level of emotional manifestations observed by women when bathing
with warm/hot water and cool/tap water and the level of physical manifestations observed
by women in doing the same. In addition, it gives the significant difference on the level
of emotional and physical manifestations in terms of using warm/hot water bath and
Table 2 shows the frequency and the percentage of the respondents who have
regular menstruation. Out of thirty (30) respondents who were chosen to answer the
questionnaire, there were 24 (80%) women have regular menstruation and 6 women
Menstruation is the term given to the periodic discharge of blood, tissue, fluid and
mucus from the reproductive organs of sexually mature females. The flow usually lasts
from 3 - 6 days each month and is caused by a sudden reduction in the hormones estrogen
The following table presents the frequency of the respondents’ bathing practices
during menstrual period.
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Always
3 2.01 to 3.0 Sometimes
2 1.01 to 2.0 Seldom
1 0 to 1.0 Never
The table 3 shows that respondents always take a bath during their menstrual
period with the mean score of 3.83. Bathing is the immersion of the body in a fluid,
The term bathing refers to “the art of cleansing one's body for hygienic or
therapeutic purposes.” It is a part of the daily activity of a human being and taking a bath
is usually necessary in order to prevent various germs and diseases from contaminating
the body. And hydrotherapy is a common means of bathing by which it is possible for
one to heal injuries or attain relaxation of the mind and body (http://
www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/bathing-and-cleansing-300031.html).
Taking a bath or shower during menstrual period is really important to keep clean
and to fight off any odors that may occur. Also, women tend to sweat more during their
period so taking a bath or a shower will also help them feel fresher
(http://www.kotexfits.com/faqs/menstruation/#a12).
Table 4. Respondents Using Warm/Hot Water and Cool/ Tap Water Bath
During
Menstrual Period
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Always
3 2.01 to 3.0 Sometimes
2 1.01 to 2.0 Seldom
1 0 to 1.0 Never
The mean score of 2.13 in table 4 indicates that the respondents who take a bath
during menstruation sometimes use warm/hot water. Hot water acts as a sedative on the
sensory and motor nerves and relieves pains, cramps and spasms. Hot water application
can raise local temperatures, metabolic rate and oxygen consumption, thus increasing
hydrotherapy/water-healing.asp).
The mean score of 3.10 which means “always” is the response of the women who
take a bath using cool/tap water during their menstruation. The cold bath according to the
women’s health may be used to stimulate a woman’s metabolism. Cold baths can wake
both you and your muscles up during morning hours, revitalize the body after work; help
cool down sunburn and prevent it from penetrating to deeper layers of the skin, and it can
temporarily alleviate skin irritations such as insect bites and minor skin allergies
(http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/bn_bodysoul_Benefits_Varying_water_temper
atures.htm).
Table 5. The Respondent’s Level of Emotional Manifestations in terms of
Warm/Hot Water Bath
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Severe
3 2.01 to 3.0 Moderate
2 1.01 to 2.0 Mild
1 0 to 1.0 None
Data in table 5 reveals the level of emotional manifestations among women who
use warm/hot water bath. Given the highest mean of 2.67 is indicator 1, “Irritability” is
found to be moderate. Following the first indicator is the “Mood Swing” with a mean of
2.27 is also found to be moderate. Given the lowest rating is item 4, “Tendency to cry
easily” is mild. Item 2 which is “Insomnia” got the second lowest with the mean score of
The over all mean of 2.07 in the level of emotional manifestations among women
using warm water bath during menstruation is moderate. This indicates that those women
who take a bath with warm water during their menstrual period have no severe
these symptoms fall into one of two categories: physical or emotional. Some of the
emotional symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle are depression, angry outburst,
irritability, anxiety, confusion, social withdrawal, and mood changes (According to
http://www.knowmycycle.com/menstrual-symptoms.aspx).
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Severe
3 2.01 to 3.0 Moderate
2 1.01 to 2.0 Mild
1 0 to 1.0 None
Table 6 shows the level of emotional manifestations among women who use
cool/tap water bath. Item 5 which is the “Mood Swing” got the highest rating with a
mean of 2.60. Next to it is “Irritability” with a mean of 2.53. Both have the same
Descriptive Interpretation which is “Moderate.” Rated the lowest are items 2 and 4 which
shows that the women’s “Insomnia” and “Tendency to Cry Easily” is mild with mean
score of 1.60.
The overall mean of 2.05 shows that the level of emotional manifestation among
women who use cool/tap water bath during menstruation is moderate. This shows that
women must take a bath always during their menstruation to avoid the severe level of
emotional manifestations.
The emotional symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle are enumerated in
mood swing.
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Severe
3 2.01 to 3.0 Moderate
2 1.01 to 2.0 Mild
1 0 to 1.0 None
As revealed in table 7, there are only two variables that are rated as Mild. These
are items 5 “Constipation” with a mean of 1.53 and 8 “Fatigue” with a mean of 1.87. The
remaining variables are all rated as Moderate. Item 8 “Menstrual Cramps” has the highest
mean of 2.80, and followed by item 3 “Abdominal bloating” with a mean of 2.40.
The table has an overall mean of 2.23 which shows that the level of physical
manifestation among women using water bath is “Moderate”. This indicates that the
women may take a bath using warm water during menstrual period because there are no
it enumerated the physical symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. These
Legend:
Point Range Descriptive Interpretation
4 3.01 to 4.0 Severe
3 2.01 to 3.0 Moderate
2 1.01 to 2.0 Mild
1 0 to 1.0 None
cool/tap water bath. Rated highest is item 6, the women’s “Menstrual Cramps”. This is
moderate based on the mean score of 2.60. It is followed by item 2, the women’s “Breast
Tenderness” is also moderate with a mean of 2.40. Item 5 “Constipation” got the lowest
rate with a mean of 1.33 and this indicates is “mild.” Next is item 3, the women’s
The overall mean of 2.04 shows that the level of physical manifestations among
women in terms of using cool/tap water bath is moderate. This confirms that those
women who take a bath using cool/tap water during their menstrual period have no severe
physical manifestations.
Those physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the menstrual cycle
can impact each woman differently. They can range from a minor inconvenience to a
major disruption. Some women may find that their symptoms are severe enough to keep
them from their daily activities. Some of the common physical symptoms associated with
the menstrual cycle are breast tenderness, bloating, headache, swelling of extremities, and
cramps (http://www.knowmycycle.com/menstrual-symptoms.aspx).
Legend:
* Significant
** Not Significant
Table 9 shows that the emotional manifestations among women who use
warm/hot water bath got a mean score of 2.07 while of those who are using cool/tap
water bath has a mean score of 2.05. To test if there is a significant difference between
Since the t-value of 0.056 is less than the critical value of 1.860 at the 0.05 level
of significance with degree of freedom 8, the null hypothesis which states there is no
have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms of using warm/hot water bath
and cool/tap water bath is accepted. It indicates that the two groups are comparable in
This confirms that warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath has no significant
difference on the effect to the women who practice bathing during menstruation (Sahani,
2008).
Legend:
* Significant
** Not Significant
In the physical manifestations, table 10 shows that the warm/hot water bath
among women has a mean score of 2.23 while the cool/tap water bath has 2.04. To test if
there is a significant difference between the mean scores of both scores, the t-value is
determined.
Since the t-value of 1.06 is less than the critical value of 1.746 at the 0.05 level of
significance with the degree of freedom of 16, the null hypothesis which states that there
who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms using warm/hot water bath
and cool/tap water bath is accepted. It indicates that the two groups are comparable in
This indicates that either one will use cool or warm water bath during menstrual
period, there is no side effects. This finding corroborates the study of Sahani (2008) that
warm water bath during menstruation has no bad effects to women as well as the cold
water bath.
CHAPTER V
Summary
This study entitled “The Effects of Bathing Practices During Menstruation” was
conducted at South Philippine Adventist College, Camanchiles, Matanao, Davao del Sur.
The objective of the study is to identify the extent of bathing practices among women
using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath during menstruation. This also aimed
to determine the level of emotional manifestations observed by women who have bathing
practices during menstrual period in terms of using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap
water bath and to determine the level of physical manifestations observed by women who
The descriptive type of research with the purposive sampling design is used in
this study. A self-made survey questionnaire was used to gather the data. The respondents
of the study are the 30 college women enrolled in South Philippine Adventist College.
Fifteen of them practice warm/hot water bath and the other fifteen practice cool/tap water
The descriptive statistics using frequency distribution, percentage, mean and t-test
concerning means of independent samples was used. In order to identify the extent of the
women’s bathing practices in terms of using cool/tap water bath and warm water bath,
the mean was applied. To determine the level of emotional manifestations observed by
women who have bathing practices during menstrual period using warm/hot water bath
and cool/tap water bath, the mean was also used. The mean was also used to determine
the level of physical manifestations observed by women who have bathing practices
during menstrual period in terms of using cool/tap water bath and warm water bath.
menstrual period using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath, the t-test of
the level of physical manifestations observed by women who have the same bathing
practices during menstrual period, the t-test of independent samples was also used.
Summary of Findings
Thirty (30) respondents were chosen to answer the questionnaire. There were 24
(80%) women who have regular menstruation and 6 women (20%) who have irregular
menstruation.
The respondents’ response with the mean score of 3.83 indicates that the women
are always taking a bath during their menstrual period. The mean score of 2.13 indicates
that the women who take a bath during menstruation sometimes use warm/hot water bath
while “always” indicates to those of the cool/tap water bath users with the mean score of
3.03.
An overall mean 2.07 indicates that the women must take a bath during their
menstrual period to avoid the severe level of emotional manifestations. In terms of using
cool/tap water bath during menstruation indicates that the women have moderate level of
water bath has an over all mean of 2.04 which indicates “moderate.”
There is no significant difference on the level of emotional manifestations
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms of
using warm/hot water bath and cool/tap water bath. And there is no significant difference
of the level of physical manifestations observed by women who have the same bathing
practices.
Conclusions
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions are drawn:
6. As to the extent of the bathing practices among women using warm/hot water
bath, the response is “sometimes” while those who are in cool/tap water bath is
“always.”
practices during menstrual period in terms of using both warm/hot water bath and
practices during menstrual period in terms of using both warm/hot water bath and
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms
observed by women who have bathing practices during menstrual period in terms
Based on the findings of the study, the following are the recommendations:
2. The public health nurse and other health care personnel must conduct community
teachings that the practice of not taking a bath during menstrual period for fear of
3. The public health nurse and other health care personnel must emphasize in their in
health lectures that the women may and must take a bath during menstruation.
4. Clinical instructor must stress out the effects of bathing practices during
5. Further study will be conducted on the variables which are not included in the
study such as the effects of practicing indoor bathing and outdoor bathing during
menstrual period.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Books
Berkow, Robert. The Merck Manual of Medical Information. Home Edition. United
States of America. Merck Research Laboratories, 1997.
Craven, Ruth F. and Hirnle, Contance J. Fundamentals of Nursing: Human Health and
Function. 5th Edition. United States if America. Lippincott Williams and
Wilkins, 2007.
Orlandi, Mario, Prere, Donald, and Speace, Annette. Encyclopedia of Good Health:
Human Sexuality. New York, New York. Michael Friedman Publishing Group,
Inc, 1989.
Ramont, Robeta Pavy, Maldonado, Dolores and Towle, Mary Ann. Comprehensive
Nursing Care. United States of America. Pearson Education, Inc., 2006.
Venzon, Lydia M.Introduction to Nursing Research; Quest for Quality Nursing. Quezon
Avenue, 2004.
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http://www.bodyandfitness.com/Information/Womenhealth/breast2.htm
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http://www.cure-back-pain.org/menstrual-back-pain.html
http://www.health-directories.com/constipation-beforeperiods.html
http://www.zenmedonline.com/articles/acne/acne-facts/menstruation.htm
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/acne-000001.htm
http://www.34-menopause-symptoms.com/fatigue.htm
http://www.epigee.org/menstruation_cramps.html
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http://www.knowmycycle.com/menstrual-symptoms.aspx
http://www.depression-guide.com/headaches/menstrual-headache.htm
http://www.frequentheadache.net/types/menstrual_headaches.php
http://www.imaginis.com/womenshealth/menstruation2.asp
http://www.kotexfits.com/faqs/menstruation/#a12
http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1P3-535022261.html
http://arno.uvt.nl/show.cgi?fid=14637
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http://www.menstruation.com.au/periodpages/menstrualcycles.html
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ter_temperatures.htm
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http://changingminds.org/explanations/research/sampling/purposive_sampling.htm
http://www.tardis.ed.ac.uk/~kate/qmcweb/s8.htm
http://www.southbaytotalhealth.com/Hydrotherapy.htm
http://naturalhealthperspective.com/tutorials/history.html
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/bathing-and-cleansing-300031.html
http://www.backpainhelpsite.com/balneotherapy.php
http://www.womensonlinespa.com/hydrotherapy_baths.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrotherapy
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http://www.knowmycycle.com/menstrual-hormones.aspx
http://womenshealth.about.com/cs/menstruation/a/understandmenst.htm
Name: Romar Dela Rosa Alberca
Age: 21 y.o.
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Age: 19 y.o.
Siblings:
1. Rommel A. Mancao
2. Frexcy A. Mancao
3. Mitchell A. Mancao
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