Menstruation. A four to seven-day cycle can be extremely painful. This cycle is natural and healthy. Nevertheless, in many families throughout Nepal, periods are considered impure and disgusting. Why is it something that we are not supposed to talk aloud?

A menstrual cycle can be exhausting. A combination of period cramps, fatigue and back pain can make it unpleasant. On top of that, there are boundaries and restrictions. Menstruation is an essential part of the cycle of reproduction. A healthy young woman wouldn't be healthy if she didn't get her period on time. It would be impossible to conceive a baby without this cycle. Despite all that, there are these misconceptions engraved into the society that need to be changed.

 

In Hinduism or Nepal, periods aren't an outspoken topic. There are stigmas around periods. It makes the cycle seem unwanted even though it is a natural cycle. Periods are said to be impure and something that should remain hidden. In many places in Nepal, women have to stay separately from the rest of their families during their periods. It's even worse in rural areas where some women have to live in the sheds with cattle during their periods. It is not just wrong to separate someone like that, but the lack of hygiene and the bacteria in the sheds can also cause serious harm to women. However, as time has passed, taboos are seemingly dying down. Still, some girls are forbidden to go to the kitchen during their periods.

They are also not allowed to enter temples or do a daily pooja. Women get a break from doing their daily chores in one way. However, the major problem is the restrictions that come along. There is no valid reason for periods to be negatively perceived.

 

In my opinion, the stigma around menstruation and how society perceives it should change. It is not something that can happen overnight. But with proper awareness and education, it is possible. Many people don't even know what a period cycle is. If you asked a random man on the street about periods, what are the chances of them knowing enough about it? The main factor in all of this is a lack of awareness. Many people follow the tradition around periods without knowing why. There is no actual research that proves that menstruation is unclean. With proper sanitary products and good hygiene, cleanliness is not a problem. The societal view on this matter needs to evolve. Instead of hiding this, girls should be able to be confident while talking about it.

 

Many problems can derive from the lack of awareness around periods. When something is considered embarrassing, it makes people uncomfortable to talk about the topic. Especially in villages, there can be an absence of proper hygiene because of illiteracy. That's why I think making people aware of it is so important.

 

In an ideal situation, a woman undergoing her period would receive support and care. Noone would place restrictions or boundaries on her based on a natural process. She would be able to talk about it out loud and have a proper conversation without feeling awkward. Whenever she talks about her period, It wouldn't be embarrassing, judged, or uncomfortable. Society will have altered into a place where women can feel cared for during their periods instead of being secluded. When will we be able to achieve this? Is it reasonable to imagine a society where a girl can be open about her period without people eyeing her?        

 

I, myself, have experienced some of these societal views on period. While I haven't had to stay in a shed, I still don't go to temples when I am on my period. I have experienced the awkwardness of having a conversation about menstruation with people. Whenever there is a restriction on me for doing something during my period or whenever I feel awkward talking about it, I question myself why is it the way it is? Even living with a modern family, society's opinions still shape our viewpoints. I can talk about it comfortably with my family, but when will I be able to talk about it in public without worrying if anyone hears me. As society advances, food, culture, and fashion improve, so should our opinions on something completely natural.

 

Let's change our periods from being a secret to a blessing!