Menstrual Restrictions: Barrier to Positive Communication on Menarche

Abstract

The adolescent is a period of transition from childhood to adulthood which results in physical changes, biological changes, and changes in the hormonal phenomenon. These changes bring out psycho-social, behavioural and sexual maturation. Both pubertal development and sexual maturation take place during adolescent stage. In girls, the adolescent phase is marked by the first occurrence of menstruation which is known as menarche. For most of the adolescent girls, mothers are found to be the primary sources of information and knowledge about menstruation. However mothers pass on negative messages by imposing menstrual
restrictions on their daughters which they followed during menstruation. Therefore it is important to ensure that effective and positive communication must happen between the mother and her daughter as it will affect future experiences and understanding of daughter regarding menstruation. Thus the present study focuses on menstrual restrictions which act as barrier to effective and positive communication on menstruation between mothers and their adolescent daughters