The topic of female menstruation is still a taboo subject in many countries, including India. Especially in rural areas, many young women suffer from widespread stigma and myths. Some are forced into marriage and are affected by pregnancies at a very young age. Also because families often lack the necessary resources, girls do not have access to menstrual products. As a result, they miss up to four days of school a month, often up to a whole month over the year. As a result, they are unable to keep up with lessons and many girls drop out of school altogether.
The organisation Amen Trust (Assistance to Mankind Enhancement for Needy) offers training for young girls in the rural regions of West Godavari to educate them about this taboo subject. Together with the participants, they work on uncovering myths and overcoming cultural hurdles. During the training sessions, they provide the girls with sanitary pads and explain how to use them correctly. This is also intended to boost the young girls’ self-confidence, especially their awareness of their own bodies.
In 2024, STELP will support Amen Trust by funding an annual supply of sanitary pads for around 500 young girls.
