Diya plays football. And when she talks about how her experience of menstruation has changed, she remembers a match: she was able to play without worrying about her pad moving or staining her clothes. And she won.
In her testimony, this student from Mangalsen, in Achham district, describes an experience that goes beyond a menstrual product. She talks about the fears she grew up with, what she has learnt through Rato Baltin and the things she wants to keep doing.
Watch Diya’s subtitled interview
Growing up with restrictions
Before taking part in the project, Diya followed the restrictions she had been taught at home and in her community. During menstruation, she could not touch certain utensils, animals or household objects. She feared something bad might happen if she did not follow the rules. Shame also made it difficult to join activities and talk about what she was going through.
Learning, trying and finding confidence
Through Rato Baltin’s training, she began to understand her body better. She learnt the importance of eating well, drinking clean water and staying in a clean place during her period. She also heard about the menstrual cup for the first time.
Trying it was not straightforward. The first time, she was afraid and could not manage it. She decided to try again on another occasion. At the time of the interview, she explained that she was already using it regularly and felt comfortable with it.
For her, one of the most concrete differences is on the football pitch. She used to worry about leaks and her pad not staying in place. Now she says she can play sport more comfortably and concentrate on the game.
More opportunities to learn
Diya also has a request for the team: she wants the training to continue and to learn things that are not covered in the school curriculum. She has questions and wants to know more.
Her experience shows why information and support are so important in Rato Baltin. Menstrual restrictions have roots in families and communities, and changing them takes time. Listening to what each girl needs, being able to talk without shame and having options for self-care are all part of this work.
Text based on Diya Khadka’s testimony and the storytelling work of Ami Manish Patel, a York University student, in collaboration with be artsy.
Help us keep working for another ten years
Your support helps us continue Rato Baltin’s training and follow-up support, so that more girls like Diya can learn about their bodies and keep doing the things they enjoy, even during their periods.