Socio-Cultural Belief and Practices Related to Menarche and Menstruation among Tribals of Kargil, J&K

The present study was carried out with an objective to assess the socio-cultural beliefs and restrictions related to menarche and adolescent menstruation and to perceive the intergenerational continuity and transition in the menstrual knowledge and practices of sample tribal females. The sample for the study consisted of 320 adolescents girls in the age group of 14 to 18 yr studying in class 9th to 12th currently enrolled at Govt Middle, High and High Secondary schools, 100 mothers and 100 grandmothers, which were selected equally from Purig tribe and Balti tribe of Kargil district, J&K state. Interview schedule, Checklist and focus group discussion were used to collect the required information from the respondents. The results reveal that females of Kargil especially mothers and grandmothers hold and follow certain specific beliefs related to menstruation. Majority of them believed that menstruation symbolizes psychological and physical maturity for females. It was commonly believed that bathing during menstruation caused cessation/stoppage of menstrual blood. Bathing during their period is also prohibited because it is seen to contaminate the body. Other beliefs held include cutting of hair/nails during period leading to contamination of body; disposal of used sanitary materials by burning or burying leads to infertility. The findings indicate that these beliefs were comparatively more popular among mothers and grandmothers as compared to young girls. The younger generation had more relevant information, which they probably gained through schools, books (science books)/and media. It is recommended that girls should be educated about the truth of menstruation, its physiological implications and about maintenance of adequate hygiene during menstruation.