Taboos Related To Menstruation In Various Cultures

Abstract

Menstruation is the normal discharge of blood and tissue from the uterine lining through the vagina that occurs as part of a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. Menstruation occurs between menarche, a girl’s first period, and menopause when the menstrual cycles end. Menstrual taboos have existed and still exist, in many or most cultures. Around the world and throughout history, misconceptions about menstruation have led to women’s and girls’ exclusion from all kinds of roles and settings. Superstitious beliefs about menstruation are common, and many have led to taboos that circumscribed menstruating women’s behaviour. Among the beliefs described by Frazer (1951) are the following: Drops of menstrual blood upon the ground or in a river kill plants and animals; wells run dry if a menstruating woman draws water from them; men become ill if they are touched by or use any objects that have been touched by a menstruating woman; beer turns sour if a menstruating woman enters a brewery; and beer, wine, vinegar, milk, and jam go bad if touched by a menstruating woman. Awareness needs to be spread to stop these taboos from flourishing and hence menstruation can also be taken as an opportunity to take a break from regular responsibilities.