Understanding sexuality: an ethnographic study of poor women in Bombay India.

Abstract

This ethnographic study identifies the constraints of low-income women in protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infections in Bombay India. The study examines the impact of socioeconomic conditions that influence womens behavior. 35 low-income women aged 15-45 years--Muslim and Hindu wage and non-wage earners with one or more children--were recruited to participate. Focus groups met about twice a week for a total of 18-20 sessions over 2-3 months. 2-hour individual interviews were conducted with 8 of the women. Findings indicate that many grew up believing that sex was dirty or sinful and were unaware of sexual matters. Many found their first sexual intercourse to be unpleasant and embarrassing due to the lack of privacy. Pleasure was an experience that grew over time. Many women said that the demanding role as wage earners mothers and housekeepers interfered with their enjoyment of sex. Wives were told forced and taught that their role was to fulfill the sexual needs of their husbands. Women learned to avoid intercourse by bringing children to bed with them using breast feeding or illness or menstruation as excuses and physically resisting advances. Women recognized their powerlessness and expressed their fears of abandonment. They viewed abstinence as the best contraceptive. Knowledge of contraception and abortion was high. The authors found that mobility information skills money and social support were necessary for having power over ones life. Unequal power relations and cultural silence increased womens risk of STIs and HIV. The study recommended educating women about their bodies and men about their social responsibility promoting consistent and proper condom use improving reproductive health services promoting empowerment through womens groups and improving womens status.