JUMLA, June 25 -- Unlike in the past, Siddha Shahi of Hima Rural Municipality sleeps at her own home even during her menstruation these days. In fact, she has been making the people aware about the risks of forcing women to live in Chhaugoths (menstruation sheds) during their periods.

"It has been 27 years since my first period which occurred when I was 13 years old," said Shahi. Even though she lived in Chhaugoths for a long time, she no more has to do so. She recalls the torturous days when she was compelled to spend at least five days a month in the shed as early as a year ago.

She has been actively involved in campaigns aimed at abolishing the Chhaupadi practice from her society. "I had developed several health problems while living...