SAALT
MENSTURAL SUPPLIES
THE CHALLENGE
Menstrual care remains a challenging issue in Nepal due to several factors, including low healthcare literacy, strong social stigma surrounding women, and widespread sexism. How can you start a conversation about menstrual health when the topic is considered taboo? How can you support or educate your children when you, as a parent, are embarrassed by the subject yourself? While wealthier families may be able to afford disposable pads for their daughters and wives, many girls still resort to using old cloths as substitutes, simply because they can’t afford pads, lack transportation to stores, and are too embarrassed to explain why they need such items.
The social stigma surrounding menstruation is particularly severe in rural areas. Many women feel compelled to lie about being sick or having headaches as an excuse to miss school or work, when in reality, they are simply on their period. This not only leads to income loss and educational disparities but also reinforces gender inequality, keeping women and girls from fully participating in everyday life.
IMPACT
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Health Camps
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Cups and Underwear
IN PARTNERSHP WITH
OUR RESPONSE
In partnership with Saalt, we are working to address menstrual care challenges by providing sustainable, accessible solutions that prioritize safety, comfort, and discretion. Our distribution of Saalt’s menstrual cups and underwear primarily supports differently-abled women, equipping them with the tools they need to live regular, safe, and health-conscious lives, while also offering vital support to their families. To further promote awareness and reduce stigma around menstrual health, recipients of these supplies are required to attend a health class. This initiative is empowering womenl, breaking down barriers to participation, and providing both physical care and the support necessary to create equality for all.
With access to these supplies, girls and mothers can overcome gender barriers, allowing them to attend school, work, and engage in sports and other extracurricular activities throughout the month without the fear of embarrassment or the needing to hide.
