End Period Taboos and Free 11,000 Girls in Nepal

In a remote corner of Khaptad Chhededaha, Bajura Kada, a young girl named Anaya lived with her family of twelve. Her father and elder brother were working abroad to support the family.

 Anaya experienced a new and bewildering situation… She noticed blood on her clothes and turned to her mother for guidance and reassurance, discovering that she had come on her period for the first time. Due to widespread social stigma, Anaya lacked awareness about this natural process, as did her mother, leading to confusion and uncertainty. In her village, it was customary to isolate girls during their periods, which meant Anaya had to stay in a small shed for seven days, adhering to tradition. The community are afraid that if someone who is menstruating touches anything, it will bring them bad luck.

During her time in the shed, Anaya was cut off from school and social interactions, she grappled with loneliness and anxiety. The shed's basic conditions affected her mental health and self-view. Lacking knowledge about modern menstrual hygiene products, Anaya had to resort to using cloth rags.

Our project focuses on initiatives to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. These efforts included educating girls about proper sanitary pad usage and providing these essentials in schools. Gradually, Anaya gained insights into the benefits of sanitary pads. However, nowhere for proper disposal of used pads remained a challenge.

Reflecting on her journey, Anaya shared, "The days spent in the shed felt like an eternity, though it was only a short time. I had fears about safety and the environment during that period. The experience was incredibly tough. But things have improved now, and we can lead normal lives even during menstruation."

Thanks to your support, a shift in the community's mindset is gradually happening. The practice of isolating girls during their periods has been replaced with encouragement to continue their daily lives.

Anaya's story underlines the importance of education, awareness, and accessibility to menstrual hygiene products in empowering girls and decreasing societal stigma around menstruation in rural communities.

You can play a vital role in this transformative journey. By supporting Karuna, you contribute to education and awareness initiatives that work alongside girls like Anaya. Your generosity helps us provide essential resources, educate communities, and foster a positive change that brings opportunities to young girls.

Thank you!