By Menstruation is a common phenomenon that women all over the world go through every month. Without it, there would be no possibility of human life and hence it holds a significant aspect to our survival.
That being said, it is a very interesting fact that humans are poorly informed about it. Menstruation rather being accepted and acknowledged is stigmatized in most parts of the world and conversations regarding it are not much entertained.
It is surprising to see people refraining themselves to use the word ‘menstruation’ unless important and rather making use of euphemisms. Often times we see women being linked with inferiority complexes such as submissiveness and weakness just because they get periods.
With all of this misogyny floating around, it isn’t hard to understand why young girls feel embarrassed and mortified especially around men regarding their period. Because of this, women are likely to keep their menstrual problems to themselves rather than discussing it with others.
It makes menstrual experiences more daunting which shouldn’t be so. It is a known fact that menstrual hygiene is imperative for a healthy life. When women neglect menstrual hygiene, it may lead to catastrophic consequences such as infections, uterine cancer, and infertility.
As a girl I was lucky enough to have an understanding and supportive parents who guided me through my menstrual phases but most girls don’t have such privilege. In many cases, these young girls are subjected to unnecessary menstrual rituals such as being barred from temples, kitchens, or even kept in “chaugoth” in rural places.
On top of these adversities, most women in our country don’t have access to menstrual hygiene products which puts their health in constant danger.
All of these problems may seem overwhelming but with our efforts we surely will surmount them. First and foremost the concept of menstruation as a taboo must be erased from people’s mind. We must hold table talks with the heads of communities and try to find common grounds in order to eradicate rituals such as chaugoth. Lastly, the government should initiate to provide menstrual hygiene products throughout the country with affordable pricing.
It is not only women who need to be educated about menstruation but men should also be well informed about it. This will lead to a better understanding between the sexes and help uproot misogyny from society.
To all the young girls and women reading this article I want you to understand that menstruation is not something to be humiliated or embarrassed about and it probably shouldn’t be something hindering you from your opportunities or rights.
I want to conclude that, even our small contributions can help bring change so we must do our best while we can.
-Pragya Dhungana
