Menstrual restrictions among young females in urban slums of Cochin
Article
| IMSEAR
| ID: sea-202062
ABSTRACT
Background:
Menstruation is associated with taboos and socio-cultural restrictions. The social and cultural significance of menstruation interacts with the physiological process to produce culturally determined norms and practices. This study was conducted among young females aged 15-35 years from urban slums of Kochi, India. The objective was to assess prevalence, factors, and patterns of restrictions faced by young females during menstruation.Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 young females in three urban slums of Kochi. A pre-formed pretested questionnaire was used. Data were analysed statistically by simple proportions.Results:
Only 8.8% young females felt they had restrictions during menstruation but when asked in detail 88% had socio-religious restrictions. Source for restrictions was traditionally followed patterns 60.8%, patterns taught by elderly mainly mother or mother in law 11.2% and self-imposed restrictions 28%. Reasons for restriction are that 14.4% considered it was good and give rest to the body, 8% women think they are unclean and 57.6% women fear to disobey religious restrictions. 77.6% of Women felt these restrictions are necessary and 40.8% felt restrictions do not need change. Out of 22.4% who felt religious restrictions were unnecessary only 1.6% were affected by religious restrictions.Conclusions:
Only a few (8.8%) felt they had restrictions and more than two-third had restrictions (88%) and felt these restrictions are necessary (77.6%). This paper explains restrictions practiced and the origin of such restrictions during menstruation. The key issues identified from the community will be an asset to combat restrictions.
Full text:
Available
Index:
IMSEAR (South-East Asia)
Type of study:
Observational study
/
Risk factors
Year:
2020
Type:
Article
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