Kathmandu, April 9 -- How many of you have slept in a menstrual hut? The idea of a 'menstrual hut' might sound ridiculous to many but it is a real thing.

In some parts of western Nepal, women are made to sleep in huts and even cowsheds away from their home during menstruation. In addition to being a clear violation of human rights, there are numerous cases of horrible experiences women have while observing this practice, known as Chaupadi.

Practiced by Hindu families in Nepal and some places in northern India, Chaupadi is a menstrual taboo which considers periods to be dirty and impure.

Women are at risk of physical and sexual assault during the time they spend in chau goths every year, coupled with cold temperatures and snake bites. ...