| dc.description.abstract | Introduction: Menstrual cycle is normally a physiological process in women which occurs during their active
reproductive years. However, menstruation is perceived in different ways in different countries, societies,
cultures and religions. Menstruating women are still perceived as impure and unclean during menstruation
and it is still perceived as a taboo in many societies in the world. Menstrual bleeding is perceived as
extreme impurity in some districts of far western region of Nepal and extreme discriminatory menstrual
practices imposed on menstruating women and on women with new-born baby (during the first 14 days of
the post-partum period). They are considered impure confined to isolated, unsanitary huts. Traditionally, this
extreme form of discriminatory menstrual practice is called Chhaupadi. The Chhaupadi tradition is banned
and outlawed by the constitution of Nepal in 2005 and criminalised by the government of Nepal in 2017.
However, this is still practiced in far western region of the Nepal.
Objective: The aim of this thesis research is to find impacts on the social well-being of the women in the
Achham district of far western region of the Nepal due to the Chhaupadi tradition, and to put better light on
the plight of the women`s condition due to this tradition.
Methods: Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interview, serendipity data collection
method and purposeful maximal sampling method. It was conducted in-depth interview with 3 key
participants, formal interview with 8 respondents, and informal discussions with various informants.
Findings: The study shows that most of the women perceive menstruation as the natural process however,
as the symbol of impurity and sin. Chhaupadi practicing women experience several challenges including
risk of illness, wild animal attack, sexual abuse, social isolation and discrimination based on gender. Most of
the people in Chhaupadi practicing community are still unaware of law against Chhaupadi. Those who have
heard about Chhaupadi being illegal do not know how they can take action against it. And some of the
community members deny the idea of criminalization of this tradition as they consider it as part of their
culture. The continuation of practice is influenced by various factors like society, culture, family, lack of
awareness about the menstruation, fear of being isolated from society etc.
Conclusion: The Chhaupadi practicing women are at high risk of physical illness, psychological stresses,
social isolation, gender-based discrimination and accidental deaths in the Chhau-hut. These women lack
social integration, are not socially accepted, they feel hopeless about their situation and lack the awareness
about menstruation, legal establishment against the Chhaupadi practice and they see no hope for a better
life. This finding suggests that social well-being of the women is adversely affected by this tradition and this
issue needs to be addressed. | en |
