Perceptions and practices related to menstruation amongst tribal adolescent girls in rural field practice area of tertiary health care institute in Mumbai

Meshram, Pravin; Ratta, Amandeep Kaur; Kumar, Vinod

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20201034

Cited by 1 publication

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“…This is due to the stern traditions prohibiting menstruating women from entering religious shrines and attending functions. [ 24 ] Majority of the participants were working in the Kudumbashree, MGNREGA scheme. The women were found to be active participants in the platform as is also seen in other districts throughout the state, as per a study by Raj P et al .…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Menstrual practices, fertility intentions and decision-making regarding family planning by women belonging to various indigenous groups of Wayanad- A qualitative study

Sreedevi,

George,

Varughese

et al. 2023

Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care

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Background: Among the different social groups in India, the tribes are the most vulnerable and socioeconomically deprived. The tribal population is distinct from the general population in terms of their unique cultural, traditional, and reproductive health practices. Therefore, the aim of the study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of the menstrual practices, fertility intentions and decision-making regarding family planning among various indigenous tribal women of Kerala. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted among the tribal women of Wayanad district using the grounded theory approach. Using purposive sampling 16 in-depth interviews, 6 key informant interviews and 2 focus group discussion (FGD) s were conducted. Interview guides were developed for in-depth interviews, key-informant interviews, and focus group discussion through extensive formative research with literature reviews and taking expert opinions. The interviews were conducted among women of reproductive age and their spouses hailing from Paniya and Kurichiya tribal groups in Kalpetta and Mananthavady areas of Wayanad district. Key informant interviews were also conducted among doctors, pharmacists, and community health workers. Results: The key findings of this study were the identification of a web of cultural practices pertaining to menstruation among persons of tribal origin. Unique traditional practices such as “Valayamapura” and “Thirandukalyanam” were reported and most of the women were keen to carry it forward. Fertility desires among couples were found to be not significantly influenced by any gender bias. Decision-making regarding family size were found to be on a mutual agreement between the spouses. The tribal women were aware of modern spacing methods, but preferred natural methods of contraception for temporary use and tubectomy as the permanent method. Non-contraceptive use of oral contraceptive pills (OCP) was prevalent, and the majority took it occasionally for postponement of menstruation to attend various social events. Conclusion: Menstruation-related myths and practices are prevalent and require educational interventions. More focus needs to be given to male sterilization as the permanent method of contraception. The study underscores the need to address gender inequalities and attitudes among tribal populations and to increase efforts to promote higher education among the tribes for busting cultural myths and practices.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%