Periods through the ages: Nepal

This post is part of Plan’s blog series, “Periods through the ages,” highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories and break stigma in their communities.

  Grandmother Tilki in Nepal has seen firsthand the change in attitudes and practices surrounding menstruation.

“When I first started menstruating, the situation was different from what it is now,” she says. “I felt scared and embarrassed about telling my parents that I had started my period. These feelings of fear and shame kept me from discussing menstruation and understanding what should be done during that time. These days, managing menstruation is much easier. Access to nutritious food, sanitary pads and affordable clothing has improved significantly.”

Tilki (left) with her daughter Rita (right) and granddaughter Pushpa (center) show what they use for their periods. © Plan International | Bita Creatives

Her daughter Rita also had difficulty managing her period growing up, sharing how they made their own pads at home.

“In the beginning, it was very challenging,” Rita says. “Concealing menstruation was nearly impossible, and we relied on makeshift pads made from old clothes. Cleaning these pads often left stains, adding to the difficulty of managing our periods.”

Pushpa, Rita and Tilki walk across a crop field at their farm. © Plan International | Bita Creatives

When Rita’s daughter Pushpa first got her period, she was at her uncle’s house. She was scared at first because she didn’t know how to tell anyone what was happening.

“Initially silent and anxious, eventually [I opened up] to my sister, who told my aunt,” Pushpa says. “Now, I’m knowledgeable about menstruation, as are my mother and sisters.”

In partnership with a local organization, Plan International recently constructed a restroom at Pushpa’s school, providing the students with clean facilities and free period products. Additionally, we helped establish a new health office at the school where girls can get assistance for cramps and receive free iron tablets.

Pushpa credits Plan’s project with helping her gain confidence in speaking up about her menstrual health. © Plan International | Bita Creatives

“Nowadays, things have changed,” Pushpa says. “I can openly acknowledge when I’m on my period and address any issues I may encounter using the toilet when I am menstruating,” Pushpa says.