Soha Ali Khan has emphasised the importance of normalising conversations around menstruation at home and in schools, saying that menstrual awareness should not be the responsibility of mothers alone. The actor believes fathers should also talk to their daughters about periods to help remove the embarrassment and awkwardness often associated with the subject. She shared her views while speaking about the importance of menstrual hygiene and education at the curtain-raiser event for Stayfree GoFlo’s initiative, which saw the presence of Neha Dhupia, Angad Bedi, Anita Lobo, Kubbra Sait, Nupur Sanon and Simone.
Speaking about her association with Neha Dhupia’s Go Flow Run, Soha highlighted how much she connected with the initiative’s larger purpose. She said, “It’s the third year—yes. I wasn't seen there last time; actually, the run always clashed with my mother's birthday, which made it difficult for me to attend. But this time, it's happening a bit earlier—in November—so I will definitely come. First of all, I’m very passionate about running and exercising. Also, I really loved the thinking behind Neha’s 'Go Flow Run' initiative.” She went on to stress that menstrual hygiene remains a crucial issue, even as awareness around the subject continues to grow.
Soha pointed out that conversations about menstruation need to reach communities where the subject is still treated as taboo. While practices such as wrapping sanitary products in newspaper are becoming less common in some places, she noted that they continue to exist in parts of India. She emphasised the need to amplify voices that often go unheard and ensure menstrual health is discussed openly in schools. According to the actor, age-appropriate sex education and honest conversations at home can help children understand bodily changes without fear or confusion.
Addressing the right age to introduce children to menstrual and puberty awareness, Soha said that the conversation should begin around the ages of eight, nine or ten. She explained that children need to understand that puberty is a natural phase experienced by both boys and girls, involving hormonal changes and physical development. “8, 9, 10—that’s the right age to talk about periods. And the conversation is already happening now. Schools discuss how puberty and adolescence are phases both boys and girls go through. Your bodies will undergo changes—hormonal changes. You’ll have body hair, you’ll get your periods, and your body will transform. These are the facts,” she said.
Soha further explained that children can become frightened when they experience changes they have not been prepared for. She believes education should go beyond simply explaining what periods are and should also cover practical aspects such as managing menstrual pain, maintaining personal hygiene and understanding the options available. Making her point about the role of parents, she said, “These are the things we need to discuss; and I believe it shouldn't just be the mother—fathers should also talk to their daughters about this. When a father talks to his daughter about it, the associated embarrassment or awkwardness fades away.” Her remarks underline the importance of creating a supportive environment where children can ask questions without feeling uncomfortable or ashamed.
The actor also shared her perspective on paid menstrual leave, saying she does not believe it should be made mandatory. Soha acknowledged that some women experience severe menstrual symptoms, including intense cramps and clotting, and said those dealing with significant pain should seek medical advice and take sick leave when necessary. “I have heard about ‘period leave,’ but I don't think it should be mandatory. I believe the responsibility lies with the individual; if you are in significant pain, you should take sick leave,” she said. She added that making menstrual leave compulsory could have unintended consequences in the workplace, particularly when women already face challenges in securing employment. “However, making it mandatory could create issues; after all, it isn't easy for people—especially women—to find employment. This could become yet another reason for employers to avoid hiring women.”
Through her comments, Soha has brought attention to two important aspects of menstrual health: the need for open, age-appropriate education and the importance of allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their health. From encouraging fathers to participate in conversations about periods to highlighting concerns around mandatory menstrual leave, the actor has called for a more informed and supportive approach to a subject that continues to affect women and girls across generations.