The core mission aims to create a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to a person’s confidence, well-being or aspirations
OdishaPlus Bureau
Periods are a natural part of life for girls and women, but too often, shame and silence surround them. To challenge outdated views and foster open dialogue, IFI Foundation, OdishaLIVE and Swasthya Plus have launched “Let’s Talk Periods,” a digital campaign focused on menstrual hygiene.
This initiative, running from May 20 to May 29, amplifies its message as the world observes Menstrual Hygiene Day (MH Day) on May 28.
The core mission aims to create a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to a person’s confidence, well-being, or aspirations. The campaign directly tackles social taboos and restrictions that girls and women face at home, work and in society.
“Let’s Talk Periods” is bringing these crucial conversations to the forefront through an engaging video series on social media channels of OdishaLIVE and Swasthya Plus Network. This series spotlights expert insights from doctors on the sensitive subject of menstruation along with diverse perspectives and personal experiences from social workers, celebrities, and young people. It further focuses on educating the masses on the entire menstrual journey of a woman, from the first period (menarche) to her final transition called as ‘menopause’.
The campaign dives into essential topics, including the basics of menstruation, effective hygiene management, common period-related health issues and their treatments. It actively challenges superstitions and misinformation, empowering individuals with facts. Furthermore, it educates on a range of modern period products, from traditional sanitary pads to sustainable options like eco-friendly menstrual cups and tampons, ensuring girls and women can make informed choices for their health.
“Around the globe, menstrual hygiene is rightly gaining urgent attention, with nations stepping up with supportive policies and programs. Now is our moment to magnify this awareness, ensuring menstruation never hinders a woman’s dreams. IFI Foundation is proud to spearhead this digital media initiative to tackle this vital public health issue, working together for a period-friendly world,” informs Sidharth Rath, Campaign Director and CEO of Swasthya Plus Network.
Despite progress in opportunities for women, a significant challenge persists: over 50 million girls and women worldwide still lack vital knowledge about menstrual health, access to period products, and proper hygiene facilities. Financial limitations, deep-seated social customs, and a lack of awareness are major hurdles. “In this context, ‘Let’s Talk Periods’ is a humble initiative to aware and educate the masses, with a focus on the youth to break the silence,” says veteran journalist and communication specialist Nilambar Rath, the Campaign Chair.
Reinforcing its dedication, IFI Foundation has joined as an official partner of ‘World Menstrual Hygiene Day’ initiative.
The 2025 program by the foundation is supported by associate partners like Kalinga Hospital, Bhubaneswar, and Paradeep Phosphates Limited.
