In a recent interview with Hauterrfly, actor Esha Deol opened up about the menstrual restrictions she faced at home and the absence of open discussions regarding bodily functions during her upbringing. She shared that during menstruation, she wasn’t allowed to visit the temple or pray, adding, “When it is over, you can wash your hair and then pray.” Deol explained that while she respects these traditional customs, the orthodox rules she followed are common in many households.
She also touched on how sex was a taboo topic at home, mentioning that she received sex education through her school. “I learned about it at school, and they taught us well at the right time. It’s important, although some parents feel uncomfortable or shy,” she said. This lack of communication within families on such vital issues is widespread across India and can significantly affect young women’s understanding of their bodies, mental health, and self-confidence.
Psychotherapist Malika Chandra from MC Psychotherapy explained that poor communication in families can lead young women to internalize harmful myths about menstruation and sex. This can foster feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-esteem. The absence of proper education may also increase vulnerability to sexual exploitation, particularly through misunderstandings about consent.
Chandra highlighted that treating topics like sex and menstruation as taboo can cause women to internalize shame, impacting their self-image and future sexual experiences. In India, societal attitudes often stigmatize sexual health and even buying sanitary products openly, leaving many women disconnected from a healthy understanding of their sexuality.
Chandra also emphasized the importance of sex education in schools and at home. While schools provide factual, professional instruction, education at home can help break down stigmas, offering young girls a supportive environment. She noted that parental involvement in discussions about body image, consent, and sexual health can play a crucial role in fostering healthy communication and mental well-being.
To help parents better address these issues, Chandra offered some strategies, such as promoting open dialogue, providing factual information, teaching consent and body safety early on, modeling positive self-image, and educating children about safe social media use.
