Shattering Menstrual Shame in Nepal

4. That is the number of girls and women that have died in 2019 as a direct result of the chhaupadi practice in Nepal, in which menstruating girls are isolated in small huts (The Guardian). Although this tradition is illegal in Nepal, it is still widely practiced, in varying forms, throughout the country. Kalikot District is a rural, mountainous area of Nepal with many beautiful and strong traditions. Unfortunately, it is also a district where chhaupadi is still commonplace. Over the past two years, Days for Girls has been working alongside Kalikot families to provide fact-based women’s health education, quality washable pads (DfG Kits), and to invite conversation around traditional menstrual health practices.

 In 2019, the Days for Girls Nepal team, in partnership with the Oda Foundation, have set out to evaluate the response to this intervention, and to expand the reach to more areas within the district. In January, our local leaders convened to begin work on 2019’s audacious goals. They met with past participants of DfG’s programming, local government leaders, school headmasters, and community members. They discussed impact, needs, goals, schedules, and the important consideration of geographical and weather related restrictions. After a series of productive planning workshops, the team began their trek out to Mahabai for the initial training and distributions. The response was overwhelming. There were thoughtful discussions, active engagement, and smiles upon smiles to close each day.

The team has a large task ahead of them, with a goal to more than double the impact of 2018. With their passion and your support, there is nothing to stand in their way! Together, we can support healthy practices during menstruation, and remove barriers that are harming girls and women. Thank you for your important part in making this possible!