Time to break free: Ending the outdated chhaupadi practice and embracing menstrual health

Sudurpaschim, the far west region of Nepal comprises 9.63 per cent of the country’s population . The region continues to practice the harmful tradition known as Chhaupadi pratha, despite being banned by the Supreme Court of Nepal in the year 2005.

I come from Dadeldhura District and have seen people following this tradition for years. Girls in my hometown only recently had access to sanitary pads but they are still forced to stay in the chhaupadi goth (shed) and people do not even touch them whenever they are mensurating as they are seen as impure.