Cultural Perceptions and Health Realities of Menopause: A Qualitative Enquiry Among Bhil Tribal Women in Nandurbar District of Maharashtra

Menopause is a universal biological phenomenon, yet its experience, perception, and socio-cultural implications vary significantly across cultures among women. Perception of menopause across cultures, shapes not only how menopause is viewed but also influencing a woman's attitude toward this biological process. Among indigenous populations, these differences are further shaped by limited access to resources, healthcare, low literacy, and strong traditional belief systems. The present study focuses on women from the Bhil tribe, an indigenous group characterized by geographical isolation, lower literacy, and limited awareness levels; thus, understanding their outlook on menopause becomes crucial. The study explores the phenomenon of menopause among Bhil women one of the largest indigenous groups in Maharashtra residing in the Akkalkuwa region within the Tribal Sub-Plan of Nandurbar district. Ethnographic study was conducted among the Bhil tribe utilising the qualitative research method through in-depth interviews with premenopausal women who menstruate regularly and postmenopausal women who underwent menopause within two to eight years, within the age group of 35–64 years. Semi-structured interview questions captured their knowledge, attitude, perception, and experience of menopause along with the changes in recent years with respect to diet. Thematic analysis revealed eight cross-cutting themes: changes in dietary patterns, low awareness of menopausal symptoms, reliance on traditional healers, misconceptions about menopause, shifting partner dynamics, and the need for targeted health education and interventions. The findings highlight the importance of addressing menopausal health through culturally sensitive approaches, emphasizing awareness and support for women within and beyond reproductive years in tribal communities through effective policy design.