The fact that menstruation is an unmentionable is what underlines this issue. Almost every culture in the world teaches women not to talk about their periods, or the problems arising thereof. Even in countries like India, where several communities often hold ceremonies to celebrate the girl’s “coming of age”, this celebration is more an announcement of sexual maturity, rather than an opportunity to help the girl adapt to her body’s new needs. The embarrassment of talking about actual menstrual problems – lack of pads, menstrual pain – is all-prevalent.

While the society I grew up in is slowly giving way to one that is more progressive, these issues have not vanished. They are only mutant and thriving. I see it even today in the classified ads. In commercials that objectify women. In pictures of an abused pop star. In antiquated passport forms that ask for father’s or husband’s name. In the protective hand that steers the woman away from sitting next to a stranger who is male.