Page 13 - MHM Report-2023

These hard-learnt behaviours and
MensTrUATion – A sensiTive Topic
In the earlier part of this chapter, socio-cultural
norms were discussed as one of the main
barriers to awareness and adoption of safe MHM
practices. Despite India’s scientific development
and information technology boom, myths and
social taboos around menstruation continue to
grip several rural regions. Many women and
girls consider period blood as impure and a topic
best left undiscussed.
attitudes often pose a challenge to MHM
awareness programmes. In some cases, MHM
volunteers also face threats of violence for
discussing menstruation, since it is a taboo in
certain cultures.
Awareness of local and regional sensitivities
around menstruation is crucial for any MHM
programme to succeed. Often, religious and
cultural beliefs, specific to the region, inform
menstruation-related myths and behaviours
of its community. Familiarity of these beliefs is
essential before initiating MHM interventions in
any region.
While most Indian languages have a
biological term for menstruation, it is seldom
put to layperson use. Knowledge of local phrases
used to indicate menstruation can prove another
essential tool in dealing with sensitivities around
menstrual health.
Thus, MHM programmes when executed in
collaboration with community resource persons
(CRPs, often known as sakhi or companion) from
the same community, stand a greater chance of
success. Women, men and village elders are more
likely to feel comfortable discussing a taboo topic
with one of their own community members than
open up to an outsider. Gender-based selection of
CRP is also proven to further assuage sensitivity-
related issues around menstruation. Deliberate
pairing of women and men with volunteers of the
same gender can help break ice without offending
existing cultural beliefs and taboos.
Despite best intentions and efforts, it is
imperative to allow scope for choice and consent.
Permitting participants the choice to withdraw
from a menstruation-related conversation or to
express discomfort should be fundamental to
any MHM programme. Allowing participants to
practice consent and set safe boundaries around
sensitive topics can help soften their resistance or
discomfort towards menstrual health discussions.
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