Silenced by Tradition: Exploring Menstrual Taboos among Lhotshampa Women and Girls in Tsirang, Bhutan

Menstruation in Bhutan remains a silenced and stigmatized subject, contrasting sharply with the nation?s holistic development philosophy and Gross National Happiness framework. This case study examines menstrual taboos among Lhotshampa women and girls in Tsirang, drawing on ethnographic interviews, literature review, and thematic content analysis. Findings reveal that Hindu beliefs, patriarchal customs, and intergenerational norms frame menstruation as impure, restricting women?s mobility, participation in cultural and religious activities, and access to education and health resources. These practices negatively influence self-esteem, school attendance, and reproductive health. The study calls for culturally sensitive menstrual education, strengthened community dialogue, and targeted policy interventions to promote menstrual equity and gender justice in Bhutan.