Achi news desk-
In the beautiful valley of Kashmir, where the majestic Himalayas guard tranquil landscapes, a silent struggle continues within the corridors of its schools. Although the region has a rich cultural heritage and a keen pursuit of education, there is a glaring gap in the curriculum around menstrual awareness that threatens the well-being and future prospects of its young women.
As most girls experience their menstrual cycles while sitting in classrooms, they are often overwhelmed with embarrassment and confusion, finding themselves navigating this natural process alone.
This gap is the absence of adequate menstrual education. As most girls experience their menstrual cycles while sitting in classrooms, they are often overwhelmed with embarrassment and confusion, finding themselves navigating this natural process alone. Teachers can offer limited support, but the prevailing culture of silence perpetuates the stigma surrounding menstruation.
As rumors of this issue cross the rough terrain, it becomes increasingly clear that a lack of comprehensive menstrual education not only endangers women’s hygiene and health but also hinders their access to quality education. Without appropriate information and resources, girls may miss school days due to discomfort or fear of embarrassment, hindering their academic progress and perpetuating cycles of inequality.
Lack of comprehensive menstrual education in schools
‘In the shadows of our classrooms, I bear the burden of silence and shame. There is a gap where vital information should live, leaving me and my friends confused and embarrassed.‘ says a local girl, a student in the valley.
‘The absence of menstruation education in our schools is a frightening reality, throwing us into a world of secrecy and isolation. We are left to stumble blindly through the mysteries of menstruation, relying on whispered secrets and hushed conversations with friends. We cling to the whispers of the elders and fleeting moments of friendship for guidance, but the silence of our teachers resonates louder than any words spoken.‘ She said.
Without appropriate information and resources, girls may miss school days due to discomfort or fear of embarrassment, hindering their academic progress and perpetuating cycles of inequality.
He further adds, ‘As we navigate the labyrinth of adolescence, we are forced to hide our struggles, going to the bathroom like thieves in the night, fearing the judgmental eyes of our peers. I have personally suffered the harsh stigma, bearing the heavy burden of ignorance and shame. Every step feels like a battle against conformity, as I struggle to hide my weaknesses in a world where acceptance is elusive and judgment is rife. The weight of societal expectations weighs down on me, forcing me to navigate this labyrinth of adolescence with care and secrecy..’
‘The absence of menstruation education in our curriculum is not just a failure of our education system, but a betrayal of our well-being. Despite promises of progress, the specter of menstrual education remains elusive, a reminder of our society’s failure to recognize our most basic needs..’ Said Sehar, who is in the 10th Standard.
Tabiya who is in the 9th Standard shares her experience. she say’As a ninth grader, the challenges of menstruation at school are deeply felt. While I am fortunate to receive home education from my mother, the lack of support and resources in the school environment worsens the situation.‘
‘With no menstrual pads available and a lack of comprehensive menstrual education, navigating your period becomes extremely daunting. It is clear that menstrual education should be uniform for boys and girls, and schools must prioritize the implementation of classes that address menstrual health in order to foster understanding and support..’ She says FII.
‘It is clear that menstrual education should be uniform for boys and girls, and schools must prioritize the implementation of classes that address menstrual health in order to foster understanding and support.‘
Tabia
‘All too often, the loneliness and embarrassment experienced when the period hits during class is palpable. Teachers, without the appropriate equipment and uncomfortable, are unable to provide the necessary support. As a result, some of us feel obliged to take breaks from school, affecting our education. It is depressing that in the midst of the pain and suffering, there is a general sense of helplessness. It is essential that schools recognize and address these challenges, ensuring access to essential resources and support for all students.‘ She added.
The urgent need for comprehensive menstrual education
‘As a gynecologist, I emphasize the urgency for comprehensive menstrual education in society today. The onset of menses occurs earlier due to pervasive exposure to various factors. It is imperative that we integrate menstrual education into our curriculum, starting from homes and extending to schools. Boys and girls alike must be educated on menstruation without stigma or shame.’ Dr Shahmeema Badroo, a gynecologist from Kashmir said:
‘Teachers play a central role in this endeavour. They must be knowledgeable and trained to deliver menstrual education effectively, guiding students through the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty. Furthermore, the availability of sanitary pads in schools is not a luxury but a necessity. It is disheartening that such systems are lacking in our state, leaving our children vulnerable to various infections and health complications.’ She adds.
She further reiterates, ‘The consequences of inadequate menstrual education are dire. Many young women lack a basic understanding of menstrual hygiene, leading to potentially life-threatening infections and complications during future pregnancies. By integrating comprehensive menstrual education in our schools, we have the power to save lives and empower our girls to navigate their reproductive health with confidence.‘
In Kashmir, a place where people hesitate to talk about taboo subjects, there is no awareness of menstrual health, and people here are not aware of such things yet. ‘We hesitate to talk about normal issues, and talking about this is a rare thing, and hardly anyone discusses it,’ said a school student on condition of anonymity.
She added her poignant reflection, underlining the entrenched barriers to open dialogue and emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and education initiatives to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation. ‘This honest acknowledgment not only highlights the systemic silence but also serves as a rallying call for collective efforts to empower individuals with knowledge and resources to navigate menstruation with dignity and confidence,’ he added.
What expert advice
‘By normalizing conversations about menstruation and ensuring access to appropriate resources, we not only empower our women but also protect their health and well-being. Education is the key to breaking down barriers and ending the embarrassment associated with periods. Let’s prioritize this vital aspect of health education and pave the way for a healthier and more informed future generation.’ Dr. Shahmeema Badroo said FII.
