Understanding menstruation through a cultural lens of women and young girls in Kallyanpur slums of Dhaka city

Abstract

Introduction: Menstruation is often stigmatized and associated with cultural taboos, especially in resource-constrained environments like urban slums. The taboo, stigma and myth surrounding menstruation have a negative impact on women’s and girls' education, mobility and emotional well-being. This study explores how cultural beliefs influence women's and adolescent girls' perception of menstruation and how it affects their lives in Dhaka's Kallyanpur slum. Method: This qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 13 girls and women aged 13 to 49. Participants were chosen on purpose to represent a wide range of experiences. To gain insight into common themes, the data were analyzed using both inductive and deductive coding. Ethical approval was obtained and confidentiality was preserved throughout the study. Findings: Menstruation was often considered as impure, resulting in limitations on mobility, religious involvement, and daily work. Participants expressed emotional difficulty during menarche due to a lack of prior understanding, with many confusing menstruations for a sickness. Cultural taboos restricted the consumption of certain foods and reinforced superstitious beliefs. Financial restrictions and inadequate sanitation facilities necessitated the use of unsafe practices, such as reusing clothes for menstrual management. Despite improved awareness due to NGO projects, stigma and secrecy remain, contributing to social isolation, school absenteeism, and insufficient access to sanitary products. However, increasing awareness efforts and male family members' support indicate a gradual shift in attitudes. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the widespread influence of cultural norms on menstruation patterns in urban slums, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive, community-driven solutions. Recommendations include incorporating menstrual health teaching into schools, offering low-cost sanitary products, upgrading sanitation infrastructure, and engaging male family members to promote open discussion. Addressing these issues holistically can improve menstrual health and empower women and girls in vulnerable areas.