Cultural taboos and menstrual health: analysing practices in Gadchiroli’s Kurma Ghar (period huts) in Maharashtra

Menstruation is a natural biological process; however, it is often stigmatized in many low- and middle-income countries, including India. Cultural taboos have led to menstrual seclusion practices, such as the use of Kurma Ghar (period huts) in rural regions. This practice is particularly prevalent among the Gond and Madiya ethnic groups in Maharashtra. Despite national initiatives aimed at improving menstrual health, Kurma Ghar continues to be widely practiced in the Gadchiroli district, where menstrual stigma and limited access to hygiene products remain significant concerns. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess menstrual health awareness, hygiene product usage, and the prevalence of menstrual seclusion among 300 women in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to summarize socio-demographic characteristics, product usage patterns, and participant experiences with Kurma Ghar. Among the participants, 67% reported a strong aversion to residing in Kurma Ghar during menstruation, primarily due to poor sanitation and a lack of essential amenities. Furthermore, 42% of the respondents reported no access to sanitary pads, highlighting significant barriers to menstrual hygiene management. Village-level analysis showed notable variation in product preferences, with many women still relying on cloth as an alternative to sanitary pads. Additionally, the majority of participants identified the need for improvements in Kurma Ghar facilities, including access to water, electricity, cleanliness, and safety measures. This study underscores the persistent challenges related to menstrual health in rural regions such as Gadchiroli, where cultural practices like Kurma Ghar are deeply entrenched. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions that are culturally sensitive, focusing on improving menstrual hygiene education, increasing access to hygiene products, and upgrading facilities in Kurma Ghar. While efforts to discourage menstrual seclusion should continue, ensuring adequate facilities for those who still practice it is critical for safeguarding the health and dignity of women.