BY PRASHNA MAHARJAN
नछुने हुनु, पर सर्नु, छुइ हुनु, पन्छिनु…………these are the terms commonly used in our society to describe menstruation. Menstruation, though being a natural and biological process, is still seen as something impure and shameful in many communities. Living in a society that still treats menstruation as a taboo makes it difficult for many girls and women to speak openly about it.
Many girls grow up hearing the same warning: “Don’t let anyone know that you have a period” or “Don’t touch or see any male members of the family”. Even though menstruation is a natural process, the menstruators are still made to feel as if they have done something wrong. In most households, girls are restricted from entering the kitchen, temple, or even certain parts of their home or eating certain types of food. Following such practices makes menstruation feel like something to hide rather than something to understand.
There are several superstitions surrounding menstruation in our society. In some areas Chhaupadi still exists. Perhaps our ancestors made some of these customs considering the discomfort faced during the periods. But what surprises me the most is that even well-educated people are following such traditions without questioning them. Traditions are deeply rooted in the culture, and change is never easy, but change must begin somewhere, and it starts from us.
One of the biggest problems is the lack of knowledge regarding menstruation. Many girls reach puberty without knowing what happens to their bodies. It is very important to teach them about menstruation from an early age, so that when their first period appears, they understand it as a natural process and do not feel scared, embarrassed, or ashamed. There are also cases where girls do not know about the correct way of using menstrual products. For example, I once heard a girl who unknowingly wore a pad with the adhesive side facing her body. This situation highlights how the absence of proper information can create discomfort, confusion, and anxiety.
Breaking the silence around menstruation is very important. When people talk about menstruation, the myths and misconceptions towards it slowly disappear. Girls and women can freely talk about periods, ask questions, seek help, and take care of their health properly. Education about menstrual health empowers girls, protects their dignity, and helps create a society where menstruation is understood as what it truly is: a natural and healthy part of life.
Periods should never be about shame. They should be a reason for awareness, understanding and open conversation. There should be no shame in bleeding.