Bhubaneswar, May 27: In the lead-up to Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, the state of Odisha has witnessed the launch of a powerful digital initiative—“Let’s Talk Periods”—aimed at breaking the silence and stigma around menstruation.
Running from May 20 to May 29, the campaign is a collaborative effort by IFI Foundation, OdishaLIVE, and Swasthya Plus Network to promote awareness, education, and dignity in menstrual health.
The heart of the campaign lies in its bold mission: to ensure that menstruation is never a barrier to anyone’s confidence, health, or future. By directly challenging cultural taboos and outdated beliefs, "Let’s Talk Periods" seeks to normalize conversations about menstruation at home, in schools, workplaces, and wider society.
Through a compelling video series broadcast on the social platforms of OdishaLIVE and Swasthya Plus, the campaign features expert voices, youth perspectives, celebrity endorsements, and stories from the grassroots. These videos explore every stage of a woman’s menstrual journey—from menarche to menopause—while shedding light on critical issues like hygiene management, health complications, and available treatment options.
The campaign also emphasizes access to modern period products, including eco-friendly menstrual cups, tampons, and sanitary pads, empowering women to make informed choices for their well-being.
“Menstrual hygiene is now receiving the global attention it deserves. It’s time we amplify that momentum locally,” said Sidharth Rath, Campaign Director and CEO of Swasthya Plus Network. “Through this initiative, we aim to build a period-positive world where no woman is held back by something as natural as menstruation.”
Despite advancements in women's rights, millions still lack access to accurate information, affordable products, and basic hygiene facilities. Financial hardship, deep-rooted myths, and lack of awareness remain major barriers—ones this campaign intends to confront head-on.
“‘Let’s Talk Periods’ is a humble yet significant effort to raise awareness, especially among youth, and to break the age-old silence surrounding menstruation,” added Nilambar Rath, veteran journalist and Campaign Chair.
In a show of commitment, the IFI Foundation has joined as an official partner of the World Menstrual Hygiene Day movement. This year’s campaign is further backed by partners such as Kalinga Hospital, Bhubaneswar, and Paradeep Phosphates Limited, strengthening its public health impact.
As Odisha joins the global movement this Menstrual Hygiene Day, “Let’s Talk Periods” is not just a campaign—it’s a call for change, dignity, and empowerment for all.
