It’s been more than ten years since Arunachalam Muruganantham invented a machine to create low-cost sanitary pads in India. While he was successful in making the pads widely available, he could do little to counter the stigma and taboos that surround menstruation. Not only rural India but even people in urban metros believe in many menstruation myths. Remember, even Kangana Ranaut had to justify that getting her period was not gross and evil?

Akshay Kumar’s movie Padman has provided a much-needed fillip to start a discussion around menstruation. Here’s why we need it urgently.

1. The Problem Starts When We Don’t Have An Open Discussion With Young Girls

Can you relate? ~ via @sanitarypanels #menstruationmatters pic.twitter.com/hAJZj7fnrd

— Breakthrough India (@INBreakthrough) September 22, 2017

2. Which Creates Ridiculous Myths Like This

This one has to be the most ridiculous thing you would ever heard!Know more such #periodmyths? Share them #SayItOutLOUD #MenstrualHygieneDay pic.twitter.com/V2Jcsj7Xhg

— HerStory (@herstoryYS) May 28, 2017

3. And This

Don’t let #periodmyths stop you from going ANYWHERE! #SayItOutLOUD #MenstrualHygieneDay pic.twitter.com/mwQ9EkN6SN

— HerStory (@herstoryYS) May 28, 2017

4. Each Of Us Has Faced Stigma In Some Form Or The Other

Every month I am not allowed to go to temples or pray bcoz im bleeding and considered dirty #MyBloodyVagina @oceania_pride @Roshikadeo

— Jasmine Kaur (@jasmine_kaur_fj) July 7, 2016

5. Lack Of Communication Spreads Misinformation That Can Adversely Impact Our Health

I was taught only “bad girls” use tampons before marriage during #Period #MyBloodyVagina

— Jasmine Kaur (@jasmine_kaur_fj) July 11, 2016

6. And Can Also Prevent Girls From Living Their Lives Uninhibited

@SoH_Globe started a beautiful initiative #365Days365Girls where we impart knowledge on #MenstrualHealthandHygiene to girls and our aim is to break the taboos/myths associated with #menstruation. Join and support our campaign #365Days365Girls. #WednesdayMotivation #periodmyths pic.twitter.com/ZrhRfa5a2q

— Shades of Happiness (@SoH_Globe) January 17, 2018

7. So Let’s Not Make The Debate Political

8. And Focus On Normalizing The Discussion Around It

9. Instead Of Shaming Girls For Bleeding

10. We Should Teach Them That A Period ≠ Stop