Period poverty is a pressing issue that affects millions of girls and women worldwide, and in Nepal, it manifests with particularly severe consequences. The lack of access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products, coupled with cultural stigmas surrounding menstruation, significantly impacts the health, education, and overall well-being of Nepalese girls.
The Reality of Period Poverty in Nepal
In Nepal, studies indicate that 89% of girls face restrictions during menstruation, including isolation and limitations on basic activities such as eating and using shared facilities. This cultural practice, known as chhaupadi, persists despite being outlawed in 2005, with many girls still being forced into seclusion during their periods. Tragically, nearly half of the girls lack adequate knowledge about menstruation, often being taught that menstrual blood is "impure" or "dirty."
The impact on education is stark. Only 28% of public schools in Nepal provide separate toilet facilities for girls, forcing many to change in secluded areas, which in turn leads to increased absenteeism during menstruation. While some studies suggest that menstruation causes girls to miss only half a day of school per year, anecdotal evidence indicates that many girls do miss school during their periods due to inadequate facilities and resources.
A Step Towards Change: Menstrual Cup Distribution
On May 30, 2024, a significant initiative took place at Hallchowk Secondary School, where the Save the Child Foundation US, in collaboration with the Inner Wheel Club of Bagmati, organized a menstrual cup distribution event. This event aimed to empower female students and teachers by providing them with sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions. Dr. Bimala Malla, a senior gynecologist, led an educational session that demystified the use of menstrual cups, explaining their benefits and demonstrating proper usage techniques. For many attendees, this was their first exposure to such an eco-friendly option, igniting curiosity and eagerness to learn.
In addition to distributing menstrual cups, the program provided educational resources, including 350 copies and pens for 200 students, reinforcing the importance of education alongside menstrual hygiene. A communal lunch for all attendees fostered a sense of community and solidarity, emphasizing collective efforts toward addressing period poverty. However, the program also faced challenges. Many participants were unfamiliar with menstrual cups, highlighting the need for ongoing education about their long-term benefits and proper usage. Additionally, logistical issues due to management changes underscored the necessity for clear communication and defined roles in program execution. Looking Ahead: The Path to Menstrual Equity
The event at Hallchowk Secondary School serves as a reminder of the transformative impact of education and awareness in combating period poverty. Organizations like Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO) and Action Aid are working tirelessly to provide menstrual hygiene education and resources, including reusable sanitary pads and menstrual cups, to empower girls and women across Nepal.
As we continue to address period poverty, it is crucial to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote access to sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions. By fostering education and community engagement, we can create a future where every girl and woman in Nepal manages her menstruation with dignity and confidence, ultimately contributing to gender equality and improved educational outcomes. Sources:
The Borgen Project - https://borgenproject.org/period-poverty-in-nepal/
GIZ - https://www.giz.de/de/downloads/giz2019-en-nepals-menstrual-movement.pdf
Resurgence - https://www.resurgence.org/magazine/article6276-tackling-period-poverty.html
NCBI - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9245245/
The Kathmandu Post - https://kathmandupost.com/national/2020/09/02/period-poverty-in-the-time-of-a-pandemic
Global G.L.O.W. - https://www.globalglow.org/menstrual-equity-nepal-india
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