| Résumé: |
This master thesis analyzes how the embodied sanitation practices and experiences of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) are influenced by different types of WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene) facilities and their social environment in the context of urban slums. To do so, the theoretical approach of feminist/embodied urban political ecology (F/EUP) was used. The research and data collection were performed in Dhaka, Bangladesh in collaboration with the local non-governmental organization (NGO), the SAJIDA Foundation. Focusing on the area of Meradia and Boubazar, eleven slum clusters have been analyzed comparing the access to WASH facilities provided by the SAJIDA Foundation and WASH facilities provided by others than the NGO. The dataset comprises 33 women and adolescent girls for quantitative analysis in form of a survey and eleven for a further qualitative analysis by means of in-depth interviews. Results show that the adverse embodiment of MHM, ranging from the absorbent method to daily activities, includes lack of privacy and lack of feeling safe, leading to fear, shame and discomfort. Comparing the WASH facilities provided by the SAJIDA Foundation to other WASH facilities in Dhaka, their general condition including the cleanliness and maintenance is slightly improved but does not appear to have a more positive influence on the experienced embodiment compared to the other facilities. Looking at the source of these emotions, it can be confirmed that the determinants of ill-health are the WASH infrastructure comprising of its accouterment, and the social norms in the given slum context, where women might get criticized and face discomfort because of the stigma around menstruation. |
Mémoire [13 Mo]