Women’s Reproductive Health and Social Stigma: Academic Barriers Linked to Menstrual Taboos

Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet many young women experience shame, stigma, and inadequate access to menstrual hygiene resources. These challenges can negatively affect educational participation. This study examines the influence of family norms, menstrual pain, and access to menstrual supplies on college attendance among female students in Kathmandu, Nepal. The study surveyed 129 bachelor’s-level students from three purposively selected community colleges representing Nepal’s Tarai, Hill, and Mountain regions. It explored menstrual practices, perceptions, and challenges related to menstruation. The results show that more than half of the respondents missed college during menstruation. Absenteeism was primarily associated with severe pain, fear of leakage in public, and restrictive family practices limiting mobility and social interaction. Students subjected to isolation during menstruation missed more days than those without such restrictions. Prior knowledge of menstruation was not found to reduce absenteeism. Overall, the findings indicate that menstrual-related absenteeism is driven not only by physical discomfort but also by social norms and emotional factors such as fear and shame. The study highlights the need for supportive college environments, access to pain management and health facilities, the elimination of harmful cultural practices, and strengthened menstrual health policies to promote women’s educational equity.