Sociocultural Impact on Menstrual Knowledge among School Girls in Nepal

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural and biological process of women’s life. However, limited knowledge, misconceptions, prevailing socio-cultural taboos, and religious restrictions contribute to harmful practices among adolescent girls and women. we visited selected schools’ multiple times and we gathered data from 565 out of 605 eligible respondents from eight community schools. The study aims to explores the socio-cultural determinants of menstrual knowledge among adolescent girls in selected community schools. This study based on quantitative research design with a census method. Data were collected through a self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire. The study found that, socio-cultural taboos, traditional beliefs, religious restrictions, and lack of open discussion significantly influenced menstrual knowledge. Hindu respondents found to get knowledge in early in age, compared to Buddhists, Christians and minority groups. More than half a percent (51%) of the respondents’ considered menstruation is a dirty bleeding phenomenon. It is still perceived as a stigma, which creates misconceptions and feeling of shame, leading to barrier in open discussion. Menstrual restrictions, such as, prohibitions on touching males, entering the kitchen, cooking food, attending ceremonies, and entering religious places, continue to exist in many communities across different castes/ethnicities and religions. Mothers played significant role to provide accurate menstrual knowledge. Menstrual knowledge and practices are deeply influenced by socio-cultural norms religious restriction. It is also shaped by family background, caste/ethnicity, and religious beliefs. Therefore, it is essential to promote accurate timely menstrual knowledge, hygiene practices and management supportive environments in at schools and home.