Girlhood Unfiltered

In a world where open conversations about menstruation are still taboo, sisters Nishka and Kaanchi Utpat are breaking barriers and making impactful strides in menstrual health education. With Nishka studying public health at George Washington University and Kaanchi in high school as passionate advocates for menstrual hygiene, they have united their efforts to establish the Utpat Foundation. Their...

In this inspiring interview with Nishka and Kaanchi Utpat, co-founders of the Utpat Foundation, we dive into their incredible work advocating for menstrual health and education, particularly in underserved communities in India. As published authors and public health advocates, they have made it their mission to break down societal taboos surrounding menstruation and ensure that all women and girls...

Menstruation has long been a sensitive topic, often shrouded in silence and misconceptions. Yet, as society progresses, it becomes clear that education and open discussions are crucial for breaking down stigmas. In today's interconnected world, information is accessible to all, making ignorance a matter of choice rather than circumstance. By including men in these conversations, we bridge a critic...

Disabilities affect around 1 billion people globally, with 80% residing in lower-income countries. The challenges faced by disabled individuals extend into many aspects of life, including menstruation—a topic already surrounded by stigma. But when combined with a disability, the physical, emotional, and logistical difficulties are often magnified.   In this episode, Nishka and Ki shed light on the...

As discussions around menstruation continue to evolve, particularly in developing countries like India, addressing the waste disposal challenges remains crucial. While menstrual products have become more accessible, their improper disposal is a significant public health and environmental concern. In this context, it’s essential to explore practical solutions that can be implemented at the househol...

In many developing nations, the topic of menstruation remains shrouded in stigma, leading to severe implications for women's health and the environment. As accessibility to menstrual products like pads and tampons increases, the challenge of disposing of these items correctly is becoming more pressing. This situation is particularly critical in India, where adolescent girls may use between seven t...

Managing your period in school can be challenging due to limited access to restroom breaks, potential discomfort, and the stigma surrounding menstruation. Navigating through classes and activities while addressing menstrual needs can sometimes be disruptive and require discreet solutions. The lack of open discussions about menstruation in some school settings can contribute to feelings of embarras...

Traveling is fun. You can see unique places, meet various people, and have incredible experiences. But for women, having a menstrual cycle during a trip can ruin the fun. It will be a source of anxiety, and you can never enjoy your travel. And so, being prepared at all times can save your day, and you will still be able to do fun things. The Upat Sisters, Nishka and Kaanchi, share their experience...

Addressing teenage period health is about more than just the physical aspects of menstruation; it also encompasses emotional and psychological well-being. By providing education, support, and open communication, we can help teenagers navigate this vital aspect of their lives with confidence and knowledge. In this episode, The Utpat Sisters talk about periods for teenagers. Listen as they discuss a...

Being an educated woman is crucial for making informed decisions about one's reproductive health. Knowledge empowers women to navigate the complexities of pregnancy, understand potential risks and actively participate in making choices that align with their preferences and well-being. Education also fosters a sense of agency, enabling women to advocate for themselves during prenatal care, labo...

The timing and regularity of menstrual periods can be unpredictable, influenced by factors such as stress, hormonal changes, and underlying health conditions. Many women experience variations in the length of their menstrual cycles and the duration of their periods, making it challenging to predict the exact timing each month. This unpredictability is a natural aspect of the menstrual cycle and hi...

Dealing with period cramps in a public space can be challenging and uncomfortable for many women. Taking steps such as bringing pain relievers, wearing comfortable clothing, and using heating pads can help alleviate some discomfort. However, menstrual stigma and lack of access to menstrual products and facilities can also exacerbate these challenges and highlight the need for greater awareness and...

Hormones can have a significant impact on skin health, affecting factors such as oil production, hydration, and inflammation. Understanding how hormones affect your skin can help you develop effective skincare practices to manage any related issues or concerns. In this episode, Kaanchi will discuss hormonal acne. Tune in as she talks about the science behind it, methods of handling it, and some in...

Welcome back to I.M.A.D.E, the podcast where we celebrate the vibrant world of Indian Music and Dance for Enjoyment! We're breaking new ground in today's special Episode 11 as we explore an unconventional yet essential topic. Get ready to dive into a remarkable journey as we discuss the recent introduction of a children's book about menstruation. Join Nishkam as she embraces inclusivit...

Is it beneficial for women to be separated when they’re on their menstrual cycle? The Utpat Sisters will discuss a custom practice in India when a woman is on her menstrual cycle. When you're on your period, it's common in some social groups in India to separate yourself. And even while this practice has been decreasing in popularity over time, it still exists. Quotes: “During a woman'...

That time of the month—a natural and transformative process that marks a woman's reproductive cycle. But it's not always smooth sailing. Many of us are familiar with those pesky and sometimes downright challenging symptoms that accompany menstruation. From cramps to mood swings, bloating to fatigue, our bodies go through a series of changes that can leave us feeling less than our best. But...

In many Southern Indian cultures, the onset of menstruation is celebrated as a significant milestone in a young girl's life. These rituals and festivals hold deep cultural and social significance, marking the transition from childhood to womanhood. But what about our own experiences? When you first got your period, did you undergo any rituals or celebrations? Today, Nishka and Kaanchi intervie...

Menstruation is a natural process that women experience every month, and it often comes with a range of symptoms that vary from person to person. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for women to easily navigate their menstrual cycles and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.  In this episode, the Utpat sisters explore four common menstrual symptoms that many women encounte...

Most of the time, when we are on our period, we feel too tired to get out of bed and would prefer to stay in bed all day. The Utpat Sisters will give you some advice about what to do when you're on your period by telling you about some of the things they do when they are on their period. Quotes: “If you feel like the pain is going to start soon, take a pill or a painkiller. Get yourself prepar...

Navigating the teenage years can be both exciting and challenging, and one aspect of this journey is understanding and managing menstrual health. By learning effective methods to track menstrual cycles, teenage girls can gain confidence, take control of their health, and ensure a smooth transition into womanhood.  In this episode, Utpat Sisters discusses how to keep track of your menstrual cycle d...

What purpose does a clean restroom or locker room serve for girls, especially if they are at school most of the time? Having menstruation every month is a challenge for all the girls. A combination of our discomfort and anxiety about getting blood on our skirts or pants. It’s a lot. The Utpat Sisters asked their mom how extracurriculars and sports get affected when she’s on her menstrual cycle. Th...

Menstrual health is a topic that should be talked about, especially by parents, because they have the responsibility to prepare their children for what they can experience in their first period. But growing up in a culture wherein menstrual health is not taught, parents who grow up in this culture have difficulty talking about it to their children, passing the curse over and over again from genera...

Maintaining female health is important for overall well-being and quality of life. One important thing that helps with this is always being prepared. By taking steps to prepare for emergencies, you can feel more confident and capable in your ability to handle unexpected situations. In this episode, the Utpat sisters talk about period kits. Tune in as Kaanchi shares the contents of her period kit p...

In some cultures, for example, in India, the topic of Menstrual health is treated as a taboo. Because of this, young girls having their first experience with the menstrual period are having difficulty dealing with it. And other girls became afraid of talking about it. Utpat Sisters share their experiences about their first periods, and they will tell why they choose menstrual health as a topic for...