Preeti Kafle
There is a lot of stigma attached to menstruation, although it is a core aspect of reproductive health. For generations, menstruation has been wrapped in secrecy. As a result, girls approaching their first menstruation often feel ashamed, confused, and uninformed. Such an uneasy silence around periods invites harmful myths, impeding young people from making healthy choices.
As a Sarathi volunteer with the ‘No Shame to Bleed’ project, I understood that youngsters of all genders should be provided with the necessary knowledge to help one another. I have witnessed an immediate need to facilitate open discussions on menstrual hygiene at schools.
The most striking change I encountered during my workshop was from the male students. When we asked them about their role in menstrual hygiene management, their responses were both heartwarming and enlightening. They spoke of how they would want to help their girlfriends when their periods come and emphasized the bottom line that menstruation is not just a “women’s issue” but everybody’s responsibility. Some even shared that they would help their mothers in the kitchen and prepare soup for them when they were menstruating. Such small acts, yet so powerful, reflect the new changing perception that exudes empathy, understanding, and mutual responsibility.
Some shy kids who won’t say ‘menstruation’ come forth as spokesmen for needs like facilities and the need to integrate into everyday functioning, ensuring girls do not forfeit respect in this most challenging journey: ‘Menstrual Health does not bear being seen as Women’s concern.’ Introducing menstrual health in schools, and fostering open discussions within the family, will replace shame with confidence. Equipped with facts, students will contribute not only to improving their well-being but also to breaking down taboos in society.
The ‘No Shame to Bleed’ campaign is more than just a project; it’s a movement that views menstruation comprehensively and accepts it, making allowance for it when and where needed.