Changing Minds, Changing Lives: Menstrual Hygiene Education in Nepali Schools

In Nepali society, menstruation remains a sensitive and often stigmatized topic, making open discussions challenging. Changing these deeply ingrained attitudes requires persistent effort and a commitment to fostering understanding. The NEW Initiative’s project, “Menstrual Hygiene Education and Reusable Sanitary Napkin Promotion for Girls in Schools,” is a bold step toward breaking the silence surrounding menstruation. Implemented in eight schools within Konjyosome Rural Municipality, the project targets girls in classes 5 to 12, addressing their diverse needs as they navigate this significant life transition. By providing guidance, support, and safe spaces for open dialogue, the initiative seeks to dismantle taboos and empower girls to speak confidently about their health.

A cornerstone of the project is the Training of Trainers (TOT) program, which equips two teachers from each school with the tools to facilitate sessions on menstrual hygiene management and reusable sanitary napkins (RSNs). These trained teachers then extend the learning to students and their communities, encouraging both men and women to engage in discussions about menstruation. By fostering inclusivity, the project aims to normalize the topic and reduce stigma. However, initial sessions revealed significant cultural resistance. For instance, male teachers attending an orientation at Shree Gothbhanjyang Secondary School displayed visible discomfort, limiting open communication. This situation highlighted the need for gradual, respectful engagement to navigate cultural sensitivities effectively.

To address these challenges, adjustments were made in subsequent sessions. At Shree Sarashwoti Secondary School, facilitators created a more welcoming environment by simplifying discussions and involving female teachers and mothers, along with select male teachers of health subjects. While this approach initially encouraged positive participation, male teachers eventually withdrew as the discussions grew more in-depth. This response highlighted the cultural barriers surrounding menstruation and emphasized the importance of tailoring approaches to foster genuine engagement. For the remaining six schools, orientation sessions were restricted to female teachers and mothers, creating a more comfortable setting where participants could share experiences and openly discuss menstrual health.

These experiences demonstrate that changing perceptions of menstruation in Nepali schools requires patience, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability. Despite initial hesitation, each session resulted in incremental progress, with participants—especially women—engaging more actively in discussions by the end. The project has shown that normalizing menstruation is not just about education; it is also about reshaping societal norms. Through sustained efforts, the NEW Initiative is building a foundation for a future where menstrual health is openly discussed, empowering girls and fostering a more inclusive community.

Execution of this project has been successful with the financial assistance from SOEZ Germany.