The Habit of Embarrassment

Shivani Singhal: Menstrual Equity Ambassador

This is a journey of a girl wanting to unlearn the habit of embarrassment and shame for menstruation.

My Memory

“From there, I began speaking about the problem with menstruation.”

When I think back on my period experience, I realize that it was very similar to many other menstruates who hadn't received any prior education.The transformation that occurred and changed the menstruates' entire existence by designating them as a "impure" element in the society.

My Journey

So when I began to realize the problem and the taboos attached to periods that suffocated girls like me who, who were told to hush about the word behind the black polythene and doors away from the males in their family, be it their father, brother, or any other man in society. From there, I began speaking about the problem with menstruation. I then made the decision to become an advocate for it in an effort to try to make a small change by educating and spreading awareness, and being The Pad Project Ambassador is the first step toward my journey of awareness.

My Understanding

“Menstruation is not simply a term.”

Thus, it is important for many to understand that for the menstruates who go through it, menstruation is not simply a term; it is a phase of a cycle that they experience throughout their life, with the societal stigma and shame attached to it.