Discussions around periods should be normalized so women don't have to suffer silently
A Muslim girl holds a sanitary pad, on the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day, an awareness program organized by Anant Foundation for 1500 female students on May 28, 2023 in Kolkata, India. © AP
Shoma Abhyankar is an independent journalist from India.
Smriti Irani, India's former minister for women and child development -- rather ironically -- vehemently opposes paid leave for women having their period, saying that, "Menstruation is not a handicap."
