Men and Menstruation: Why Fathers, Brothers, and Partners Need Period Education

The Personal Journey That Sparked a Revolution

In 2020, during COVID-19 first wave, Mahipal Singh found himself in a situation that forever changed his perspective on menstruation. His wife was ill and self-isolating, leaving him as the sole caretaker of the household, including their 12-year-old daughter. Mahipal was unprepared for his daughter’s first period, an experience he had never anticipated.

“I just didn’t know what to do,” Mahipal admits. Since his wife was unable to help, he had to assist his daughter with putting on a sanitary pad, something that felt awkward and alien at the time. Menstruation had always been viewed as a taboo subject in his family. This moment of vulnerability led Mahipal to realise something profound: there was a massive gap in the way men were educated about menstruation.

Empathy Sparks Business Innovation

Mahipal's experience left him reflecting on the larger issue—many fathers, brothers, and partners lack the insights and tools to provide adequate support to women during their menstrual cycle. This realisation ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, not just to solve a personal problem but to fill a critical hole in the market. This led him to create Revaa, a business dedicated to making period products accessible and educating people about menstrual hygiene.

However, Mahipal's journey was not without hurdles. His entry into the period care industry, far removed from his prior work in loyalty programs and fintech, was met with scepticism. Many industry professionals argued that a man shouldn’t be involved in menstruation-related businesses. The same societal taboos Mahipal had faced were being reflected in the business world.

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Breaking the Silence: Why Men Must Learn

Revaa’s mission extends beyond just selling products; it aims to educate men. Men, as caregivers, partners, and fathers, need to be equipped with the right knowledge to help women through their periods, both practically and emotionally. "When men understand menstruation, they can provide support without embarrassment. This knowledge is empowering,” Mahipal explains.

This shift in perspective is crucial because women and girls need to feel safe discussing menstruation without the fear of being judged. If fathers, brothers, and partners are educated, they create a supportive environment where menstruation is no longer taboo, but a normal, healthy part of life.

Changing Culture and Breaking Stigmas

Men’s involvement in menstrual education also plays a critical role in changing societal norms. When men are informed and feel easy while talking about a woman’s "that time of the month", they pave the way for future generations to grow up without the shame that has surrounded this topic for so long. "It’s about breaking the silence that has held us back for generations,” Mahipal says.

By normalising menstruation discussions, we allow women and girls to make their needs known without fear or embarrassment. This cultural shift not only helps those in the household but also contributes to society as a whole by creating an open, understanding environment for women of all ages.

Revaa: A Step Towards Awareness

Founded in 2023, Revaa has been at the forefront of educating and providing quality menstrual products. Through their online platforms and social media channels, the company has created a space where experts can discuss menstrual health and hygiene, dismantling the taboos that Mahipal himself faced. In less than a year, Revaa has grown exponentially, showing that there is indeed an unmet demand for education and accessible period care solutions.

Mahipal Singh’s story highlights the importance of educating men about menstruation. Fathers, brothers, and partners have a critical role to play in breaking the silence and stigma surrounding this biological process. When men are empowered with this knowledge, they eventually contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for the women in their lives.

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