Month/Year of Graduation
5-2025
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Biomedical Biology (BTCHBS)
First Advisor
Dr. Lucy Morrison
Abstract
This qualitative study explores how menstruation is experienced, discussed, and understood within two refugee communities—Karen and Q’anjob’al—through the lens of reproductive identity, sociolinguistics, and access to care. Drawing from semi-structured interviews with two menstruators, this baseline research examines how cultural beliefs, language practices, and household dynamics shape participants' understanding of their bodies and chronic reproductive conditions. Findings reveal that menstruation is closely tied to womanhood and fertility, often taught as preparation for childbirth. Silence around menstruation—reinforced by maternal figures and patriarchal norms—emerged as a dominant theme, influencing both verbal expression and physical practices. Participants who lacked access to reproductive education or products described confusion, shame, and delayed care-seeking, while those with access reported greater bodily awareness and self-advocacy. Sociolinguistically, participants navigated menstruation through sacred terminology, euphemisms, and strategic silences, illustrating how language and cultural norms intersect to shape reproductive logic. While the small sample size limits broader generalization, this study lays the foundation for future research and highlights the need for culturally responsive reproductive education and care. It also raises critical questions about how menstruation and fertility are communicated—and how those narratives impact identity, health literacy, and access to support in migrant and refugee populations.
Recommended Citation
Soe, Moo Law Eh, "Chronic Health and Refugee Observations on Norms, Insights and Cultural Language of Menstruation" (2025). Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects. 374.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/university_honors_program/374