Girls Glory - Improve Menstrual Health in India

Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by millions of girls and women around the world. Yet, for many, it is surrounded by silence, misinformation, and stigma. Empowering girls through menstrual literacy is an essential step toward improving health, education, and gender equality. Reaching Hand has always been in the forefront addressing this by providing accurate knowledge about menstruation and promoting open conversations, society can help girls manage their periods with confidence and dignity.

Understanding Menstrual Literacy

Menstrual literacy refers to having the knowledge and understanding needed to manage menstruation safely and confidently. It includes learning about the menstrual cycle, recognizing what is normal and what may require medical attention, and practicing proper menstrual hygiene. Menstrual literacy also involves understanding the emotional and physical changes that may occur during menstruation.

For many girls, their first experience with menstruation can be confusing or even frightening, especially when they have not been educated about it beforehand. When girls are informed and prepared, they are better able to understand their bodies and handle menstruation without fear or embarrassment.

In the last quarter we have covered the following topics for Adolescent Girls at Government schools:

The girls acquired comprehensive knowledge on the following topics:

• Physical & emotional changes during puberty
• Proper techniques of for hygiene disposal
• The significance of eating balanced food.
• Taking care of menstrual cramps
• Prevention of bacterial infections
• Maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation
• Understanding and preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
• Staying active during menstruation
• Monitoring menstrual cycles

Breaking the Silence Around Menstruation

In many communities, menstruation is still treated as a taboo topic. Cultural beliefs and social norms often discourage open discussion, leaving girls to rely on myths or incomplete information. This silence can create feelings of shame and isolation.

Promoting menstrual literacy encourages open dialogue among parents, teachers, and communities. When menstruation is discussed openly and respectfully, it helps normalize the experience and reduces stigma. Educating both girls and boys about menstrual health also fosters empathy and understanding, creating a more supportive environment.

Testimonial

Rupa from a Government school says that – “the session that was conducted by Reaching Hand Team was informative & helpful.” Earlier, they avoided eating food like eggs and curd because they believed these would cause menstrual blood to smell bad. After attending the session, they understood that this was only a myth and began eating eggs regularly, which helps them feel more energetic during their periods.

Through the session they have now learned that Yoga relives menstrual cramps. In addition, they realized the importance of changing sanitary pads every four to six hours and staying well hydrated. They expressed their gratitude to Reaching Hand for bringing positive changes to their lives.

Moving Toward a More Inclusive Future

Menstrual literacy is not just about education—it is about dignity, equality, and empowerment. When girls understand their bodies and have the resources they need to manage menstruation, they gain confidence and independence. Breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation creates a more inclusive society where girls can thrive without unnecessary barriers.

Empowering girls through menstrual literacy ensures that menstruation is no longer a source of shame or limitation but a natural part of life that is understood, respected, and supported.

Through safe sanitation & Hygiene we are making sure that girls are more confident and they understand the essense of Hygiene & Menstrual Management. 

In urban slums, rural villages and even bustling cities, menstruation often comes with shame, missed school days and unsafe practices. Girls use cloth scraps, ash, or newspaper—not by choice, but by lack of access. Many drop out of school once puberty hits. Others suffer infections due to poor hygiene and zero education on menstrual health.

Reaching Hand has always been in the fore front to address issues on women & young girls

Activities in the last quarter as given below:

 1. Construction Update: Building Dignity

Toilet Room construction is nearing completion in three schools — enabling future classroom expansion.

 2.  WASH Sensitization: Hygiene as a Habit

Workshops were conducted in four schools, covering:

• Personal hygiene (bathing, oral care, clean clothes)
• Proper handwashing techniques
• Safe drinking water and sanitation
• Healthy eating habits
• Disease prevention
• Understanding good and bad touch

 Each student received a WASH kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel and nail clipper. WASH Committees were formed to promote leadership and ensure long-term hygiene practices.

3. MHM Workshops: Breaking the Silence

Menstrual Health Management sessions were held in three schools, with one other school scheduled for this November.

 Girls engaged in open discussions on :

• Puberty and hormonal changes
• Sanitary Napkin usage and disposal
• Balanced nutrition and menstrual cramps
• Hygiene during menstruation
• Preventing UTIs and infections
• Tracking cycles 

The sessions fostered confidence, knowledge and a supportive environment for adolescent girls.

Thanks to our generous donors we have been able to move forward to create a space for young Girls because - She Matters.