Perception and adaptability of adolescent girls with existing socio-cultural menstrual beliefs and myths in Kargil

Each culture has myths and beliefs about menstruation. These believes exist in different forms in different cultures. In most societies, menarche is an indication of sexual maturity in a girl. However, a substantial body of literature suggests that menarche and menstruation are mainly negatively perceived and experienced by girls. The study aims to identify perception and adaptability of adolescent girls with existing sociocultural menstrual believes and myths in Kargil. The sample has been drawn from 2 blocks namely. Kargil and Sankoo blocks. The study comprised of 320 unmarried adolescent girls who were selected in equal numbers from Balti and Purig tribe. The entire group of selected girls was currently enrolled in high and higher secondary schools of the district. The tools used for data collection included: Interview, Checklist method, and Focus Group Discussion. The data were analyzed through content analysis and statistical techniques using SPSS 16.0 version. The findings highlight that the lives of these tribal females continued to be influenced by the cultural and religious construction. Majority tribal adolescent girls continued to follow many of the menstrual beliefs and myths. They especially avoided applying of henna during menstruation and followed the practice of hiding menstrual clothes and protective products. Disposal of all menstrual material was still done in complete secrecy and beliefs related to this were held as true. This all shows that the young adolescent girls have modified some of the beliefs but continue to feel the presence of many other beliefs/myths. Menstruation though intrinsic to them happens to be bound by many specific menstrual believes and myths. Though they desire to abandon many of these but fear of social rejection and loss of family prestige hinders them to leave these beliefs and myths.