Do you remember that biology class you had taken in school on the reproductive system? Of course, you do. That was the only class which was excitedly discussed in hushed whispers during an otherwise boring academic year. But what do you remember from that class except for uncomfortable silences, sly glances, suppressed giggles and skipped lessons? There’s a higher probability that you have learned more about reproduction through Google than through that class which was actually meant to teach you about it. In a country which refuses to acknowledge its population outburst, it’s ironic how reproduction is the least talked about subject.
Let us assume that if you’re reading this article you are way beyond the age of learning the basics of the reproductive system and other bodily functions related to it. Yet, when you get your periods, you have to ask your female colleague or classmate for an extra pad in a manner so discreet that nobody gets to know about it. If it is still a taboo to openly talk about menstruation in a privileged setup like yours, then there’s no point in discussing the plight of the underprivileged women who have no means to these facilities. We’re a country whose comic industry still largely depends upon crass toilet humour and yet, we change our TV channels as soon as a sanitary napkin ads air on it. Though many people may argue that talking about a problem doesn’t solve it, we should not forget that talking about a problem helps in acknowledging the fact that it, in fact, does exist.
There are a few burning facts about our country that we all must be aware of:
1. According to a 2015 study, it is estimated that one out of five young Indian women suffers from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome which leads to infertility if not taken care of.
2. Rural women are still not able to afford sanitary napkins and are exposed to extreme health hazard caused due to unhygienic sanitary practices.
3. There’s a widespread stigma about menstruating women even in urban areas which leads to them getting less nutrition and comfort than they should during such times.
The first step towards solving these problems is talking about it. Accepting the status quo without questioning only leads to worsening of the situation. Use your means to make a difference, however small it is. It is understood that we all have a life to lead and do not really have time for bringing about a change, no matter how much you would like to. But there are small ways in which you can make a significant difference. They say that change begins at home and time has proven that it is indeed a fact. If you have a strong will, you can take the following steps for your own little revolution –
1. Say no to the shopkeeper when he covers your pads in a black polybag or a newspaper. It’s not about flaunting it. Let’s just stop treating a normal transaction like a drug deal.
2. When you take out your groceries, do not stuff the pads. Take them out like any other item. Start normalising, menstruation is not a crime.
3. If you’ve to take a leave from work due to periods, state the real reason. Everyone knows you don’t have a migraine every 28-30 days.
4. Do not hesitate to ask your brother or father to get you pads. We all are comfortable in discussing it with our partners, then why not siblings and parents? Stop sexualising a normal bodily function.
5. Talk to your domestic help about it. Ask if she knows about menstrual hygiene and educate her if she doesn’t.
6. If you know any lady who does not have the access and means to get safe sanitary napkins, get them a packet. It will cost you less than your pizza.
7. Lastly, stop feeling guilty about it or even using it as an excuse to refrain from certain activities. Normalisation is the first step towards the change.
These steps seem to be pretty basic and ineffective but the lesser the noise, the better the outcome. A revolution doesn’t always have to be in the form of rallies and slogans – it is about bringing a lasting change. Do it in a small way, do it in your way.
We’re the nurturers of the future generation and we must stop feeling ashamed for a sign that proves it. Menstruation is as simple as growing a beard. Why should you be ashamed of it? Let’ repeat it again – menstruation is not a crime, it’s normal. Period.
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