An Interpretive Analysis of Young Females’ Perspective on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Experiences in Current Society

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Swayamsidha Samant and Niharranjan Mishra (Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha)

Menstrual hygiene management is an essential aspect of cleanliness for adolescent menstruating girls. However, public hygiene and sanitation facilities are lacking, making this experience embarrassing and painful for girls. The study evaluated perception, knowledge, social stigmas, menstrual health, diet, and hygiene issues among young girls. The sample comprised forty adolescent girls. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion sessions were employed, and thematic interpretive analysis was used as the data analysis method. The results revealed that the participants’ comprehension and awareness of the menstrual procedure preceding the beginning of menarche were insufficient, leading to frenzy, uneasiness, and humiliation. Inadequacy of knowledge, superstitious social practices, taboos, and stigmas around menstruation contributed to the participants’ misinformation. Unhealthy diet and lifestyle habits certainly contributed to menstrual health difficulties. The study primarily unveiled the menstrual challenges experienced by adolescent females in an in-depth manner with reference to socio-cultural background. The study’s conclusion can be implemented to improve existing facilities, dispel prevalent taboos, and promote awareness among adolescent girls concerning menstrual health and wellness management.