For many women with disabilities in Nepal, managing menstruation is not only a personal challenge, it is a systemic one. Physical barriers, the lack of inclusive infrastructure, and deeply rooted stigma make it difficult to manage menstruation safely, privately, and with dignity. Homes and public spaces often lack wheelchair-accessible washrooms, leaving people with mobility impairments struggling to change menstrual products or maintain basic hygiene.

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"Since the Government of Nepal has not developed or prioritized MHM policies for people with disabilities, families struggle to provide adequate support," shared CCN Director Kesang Yudron. The lack of disability friendly materials, accessible facilities, and inclusive policies continues to be a major gap in Nepal's menstrual health landscape.

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These challenges are even greater for people with visual or intellectual disabilities. Pratichhya shared, "Visually impaired women have told me during various training sessions that when they go to medical shops to buy sanitary pads, they are often given expired products." She recalled one woman who developed an infection after unknowingly using expired pads. She also emphasized the need for accessible washrooms and educational materials, including manuals, videos, and audio resources, that are designed to meet the needs of people with different disabilities.

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Cultural practices such as chhaupadi make these challenges even more difficult, especially in rural communities where menstrual products are already hard to access. For women with intellectual or sensory disabilities, the lack of tailored support, combined with social stigma, can lead to further exclusion and make it even harder to understand and manage menstruation safely.

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Tulasa Karki knows these challenges firsthand. Born with a physical disability that affects her arms, Tulasa grew up in a low-income family where healthcare and education were difficult to access. When she experienced her first period, she was frightened. Because of her physical limitations, she depended on others for everyday activities such as using the toilet, bathing, and changing clothes. During menstruation, those challenges became even greater. But instead of receiving support, she was often met with shame. "People around me showed disgust and hesitation," she recalled.

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Finding someone willing to help her change her sanitary pad was a constant struggle. At times, she had no choice but to wear the same pad for more than 24 hours, putting her at risk of infection and causing unnecessary discomfort.

This year, Tulasa participated in a one-day menstrual hygiene training led by Pampha Purkoti, a participant in the May 2024 Training of Trainers (ToT) supported by CCN.

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"Through the support of CCF, I received training on menstrual hygiene management for women with disabilities. The training was incredibly effective." - Tulasha Karki

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For the first time in her life, Tulasa received accurate information about menstrual health and hygiene.

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Tulasa's story is a reminder of what becomes possible when education, empathy, and access come together. It also highlights why disability inclusion must remain at the heart of menstrual health efforts. Every woman and girl deserves the knowledge, support, and dignity to manage menstruation safely, regardless of ability.