Alternative Title

Understanding the Presence and Persistence of the Taboo and Stigma Surrounding infertility in Kurnool, India from Ayurvedic, Homeopathic, and Allopathic Practitioners

Abstract

Previous research investigating reproduction related taboos and stigma in the Telugu community focus on the historical context of reproduction in India, the common sentiments shared among the Telugu community regarding fertility, and the different modes of healing and treatment separately. However, few examine these elements comprehensively and through a practitioner’s perspective. In this study, I focus on understanding if and why the taboos and stigmas surrounding reproduction still exist, and how they affect the treatment processes practitioners specializing in Ayurvedhic, Homeopathic, and Allopathic methods practice. An analysis of the sociopolitical history of reproductive policy and practices in India are done through Malthusian and eugenic theory of population, feminist influence on policy and obstetric violence, and Foucault’s theory of circular power. This theoretical analysis invokes a framework in which this research is implemented and interpreted. From five interviews with practicing Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Allopathy practitioners in Kurnool India, themes surrounding patient knowledge, socioeconomic status, and religion, caste and culture, and their influences on and with taboos and stigma emerge. These findings reveal that practitioners believe the lack of knowledge patients have had the most influence on how their patients talk about infertility. While previous research investigating reproduction in the Telugu community reflect that socioeconomics and religious/ cultural practices influence how patients view reproduction, conversations with these practitioners reveal that these factors more so impact how knowledgeable patients are about infertility, therefore promoting the persistence of taboos and stigma they experience. This work offers valuable insights into how practitioners practicing fertility care view and are impacted by the persisting taboos and stigma surrounding reproduction. By looking at these views through the historical context of reproduction throughout India’s history, this research provides guidance for educational programs, reproductive policies, and infertility support agencies in helping support the underrepresented and often shunned infertile population within the Telugu community.

Advisor

Higelin Ponce de Leon, Ricardo

Second Advisor

Craven, Christa

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Disciplines

Other Anthropology

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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