Support for menstrual health for girls in India

Dear Friends,

Greetings from Indian Dreams Foundation!

“When I got my period the first time, my mother restricted me from entering the kitchen during period days; I was surprised by her behaviour towards me and had many questions in my mind but I used to stay stop. Because my mother told me not to say anything to anyone regarding this” said Monika (name changed), a Fifteen – year – old school girl.

Monika is not alone, according to an early menstrual hygiene survey conducted by the organization, the girls face many challenges during their periods i.e. they are not allowed to do regular activities, they are not allowed to enter the kitchen and temples, they are restricted to go outside the home and many more. Many girls miss their school during their periods, the reasons are many like shame, discomfort, private toilets facilities are often not accessible at school and lack of menstrual products. Along with these, cultural taboos are also a major reason behind the issue that prohibits girls & women from everyday activities. Misinformation & a lack of knowledge about menstruation and the reproductive system in general compound the problem.

The awareness program on menstrual hygiene management (MHM) named SMILEY DAYS that IDF has been implementing to break down the stigma surrounding girls’ menstruation while educating girls & women on their changing bodies and menstruation hygiene management. Through this program, we directly target adolescent girls and women from urban slums.

So far, Smiley Days has impacted thousands of girls and women and motivated them to maintain hygiene during menstruation.

We will continue to keep you updated about our work and events.

Many thanks again for your support!

 

Regards,

IDF Team