For dignity, freedom, and confidence

To whisper the words and pretend to stay clean.

To carry our pain with a smile on our face,

As if something natural should be erased.

But periods are normal, they’re part of our life,

Not something disgusting, not shameful or strife.

Yet girls miss their classes, feel fear and disgrace,

Just because stigma still lingers in place.

No more hiding pads in the sleeves of our shirts,

No more laughing away all the cramps and the hurts.

It’s time we speak loudly, let silence now end,

With knowledge and kindness that continue to spread.

Because menstrual health matters, this much is true,

For dignity, freedom, and confidence too.

And every girl deserves comfort and care,

Not judgment, not shame, but support everywhere.

Rabia Kamran, Pakistan, Girls Advisory Council