MENSTRUAL HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG TRIBAL WOMEN: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL APPROACH

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural phenomenon which is common to all women in this universe. Globally all women of reproductive age practice to deal with menstruation. These vary greatly with geographical boundaries, personal preferences, available resources, education, economic status, traditions and culture. This study was conducted to explore the socio cultural realities co existing with menstrual hygiene practices among tribal women. A phenomenological design was used to assess the practices of menstrual hygiene among tribal women of Vellore, Tamil Nadu among 10 samples who were selected using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using open ended leading questions. The data were analyzed based upon Van Colaizzi framework and the themes identified were Fear and Anxiety during menarche, Lack of Awareness regarding Menstruation, Menstruation as Distress to the body, Sense of Cleanliness during Menstruation, Convictions on Rituals and Habits, Belief in Home Remedies, Isolation during menstruation. The overall study findings revealed that the women in the tribal communities had varying degrees of menstrual hygiene practices which were both healthy and harmful to reproductive health. It underscores the vital role of the nurse to create conscious awareness and clear understanding of menstruation. Menstrual hygiene should be promoted by nurses to improve women’s health and welfare.