End Period Taboos and Free 11,000 Girls in Nepal

"My name is Sunita, and I have been a Female Community Health Volunteer for 18 years"

I live in Bayana, Nepal. I cannot read or write, but for nearly two decades I have been dedicated to helping women in my community. I live with my husband, mother-in-law, two sons, and three married daughters. Our family depends on agriculture and livestock to survive.

Before Karuna’s project, life for women here during menstruation was filled with shame, isolation, and danger.

I grew up following the Chhaupadi tradition, where women are seen as “impure” during their periods. We were forced to sleep outside in cold sheds, sometimes with rats, flies, and snakes. "I once had a frightening encounter with a snake in the shed" - a moment I will never forget.

During menstruation, I was denied milk, yogurt, and nutritious food. I was only given salt and dry roti, with barely enough water to drink. Many women walked around with visible blood stains because we had no pads and little understanding of menstrual hygiene.

When Karuna’s project came, everything began to change. They educated us about menstruation and sanitation, and provided sanitary pads so women could manage their periods discreetly and hygienically.

Now, "no one can tell who is menstruating" , not because we hide, but because we can live normally without shame. We wash our hands and feet with soap and water. We clean our clothes properly. We eat what we want during our periods.

Maya a team member from the project taught us about the harm of discrimination. Inspired, I gave my daughter milk during her period, breaking tradition. My neighbours followed my example. Even my mother-in-law, who once feared the gods’ anger, now understands the importance of treating menstruating women with dignity.

The project didn’t just change periods, it changed our whole approach to health. We now have soap, toothpaste, towels, nail clippers, and pads. Before, we brushed our teeth with coal. Now, even the elderly wash hands before meals and brush daily with toothpaste.

I notice the difference in our homes. Before, children ran around covered in dirt and flies. Now, "mothers prioritise keeping their children and homes clean."

My Role Today:

I speak openly about menstruation and health now, something I never dared before. Women listen to me more than ever. I teach them how to care for themselves and their daughters.

Other organisations have tried to bring change, but "Karuna’s project has been the most successful." We have overcome harmful traditions, embraced hygiene, and learned to support each other.

I feel proud. Proud of my community, and proud to be part of this transformation.

"I will continue to advocate for the well-being and dignity of women in my community."

Thank you.