Valarum Payanam

About the book

An illustrated book for girls about menarche, this book provides essential, age-appropriate education that demystifies first menstruation with warmth and clarity. Through gentle illustrations and accessible language, it explains the physical and emotional changes accompanying periods, helping girls understand what's happening to their bodies without fear or confusion. The book normalizes menstruation as a natural, healthy milestone rather than something shameful or secretive. It covers practical topics like managing choosing menstrual products, understanding the reproductive system, getting to know the hormonal changes and their effects on body and mind and maintaining hygiene, while addressing common concerns and questions. By depicting diverse experiences and emphasizing that every girl's journey is unique, this book builds confidence and body positivity. It encourages open conversations with trusted adults and challenges menstrual taboos, empowering girls to approach this transition with knowledge, dignity, and pride in their changing bodies. This book has bagged the first prize in 'Pennezhuthu Potti' Competition 2025, under the Best Children's Non Fiction category.

About the author

Dr M K Vanitha holds a doctoral degree in biochemistry. She has written many research papers on breast cancer. Having worked as an assistant professor in a college, now she is on a career break. She writes stories and articles for Her Stories website.