Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Despite this being a normal physiological phenomenon, the very mention of menstruation is still taboo among adult males. Socio‐cultural, economic and personal factors influence individual opinions about menstruation. This exploratory qualitative study used in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with males aged 18 years and over purposively sampled from a range of cultural groups, educational backgrounds. We recruited participants until we reached saturation. The interviews examined 1) respondents' knowledge regarding menstruation, 2) cultural practices associated with it and, 3) their willingness to support menstruators. Data were transcribed verbatim, anonymised and thematically analysed. Through an iterative and reflexive process of grouping codes into broader categories, we then developed themes that captured the main findings. Participants exhibited limited and superficial knowledge about menstruation. Most referred to Menstruation was characterized in the past as a ‘girl’s problem’ and was associated with bleeding only. Almost everyone in this group has heard of its rudimentary connection to reproduction, but, most lack basic knowledge of hormonal or reproductive mechanisms. Among the urban participants and those with a wider educational exposure, the awareness level was exponentially better as compared to their rural counterparts. Majority of the participants had a positive attitude towards menstruation, perceiving it to be normal rather than as an ailment and found to support women every time they went through their cycles. These results point to the absolutely critical need for gender‐sensitive menstrual education aimed at addressing myths and stigma and encouraging compassion and caring for women.
How to cite this article:
Amit Abasaheb Mane, S. Suthanthira Kannan, Vishwajeet Manohar Chavan and Harshal Tukaram Pandve. Exploring Male Perspectives on Menstruation: A Qualitative Analysis.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.480.485
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.480.485