Inequalities in menstrual hygiene practices and social stigma among women of particular vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

This article aimed to understand the menstrual acquaintance, practices and hygiene care of underprivileged women living in difficult terrine. The PVTGs tribes have low literacy and poor socio-economic condition. The study has focused to find out the existing personnel health hygiene by way of the use of sanitary pad and fronting with social stigmas during the menstrual period.Community based cross-sectional study was conducted in all three PVTGs Baiga, Bharia, and Saharia women of Madhya Pradesh. Data collection was done in 2019-20 in selected district Dindori, Chhindwara and Sheopur. A total 302 women were interviewed on menstrual hygiene practices and related issues who were in reproductive age (15-49 years). The related relevant information’s was collected by female trained investigators through structured questionnaire schedule by conducted interview method after obtained consent.Care of menstrual hygiene as use of sanitary pad (absorbent) was found 11.2% among women. Inequality of the use of sanitary pad was seen lower (6%) in Baiga women in comparison considerably higher (17.6%) in Bharia and (10.4%) in Saharia women. Disposing the used absorbent at outside the village were found significantly higher (44.8%), (p<0.05) in Saharia while burn the used absorbent seen significantly higher (78.3%), (p<0.05) in Bharia women. Cleaning the genital with water only were found alarming 16.5% among women particularly 21% in Baiga,17.6% in Bharia and 11.5% in Saharia women due to different culture and norms. As regards 28% women feeling menstruation is Impure details as 42%, 9% and 31% by Baiga, Bharia and Saharia women. Restrictions as social stigma during menstrual period, about 13% of women were reported that they had not involved in the community social and cultural functions. Social stigma was seen noticeably higher (22%) among Saharia while lower (12.4%) in Bharia and 5% in Baiga community.Use of hygiene absorbent during menstruation period was found comparatively very low (11.2%) among tribal women in comparison to national average. The tribal women are having greater risk of own health and her forthcoming baby. Appropriate IEC campaign program on awareness for menstrual hygiene care among women and easily availability of sanitary pad will be upholding of superior menstrual hygiene which correlated to health of mother and reproductive care.