Since education is a very important pillar of my work, I have been working as a translator and a book publisher since I came across the great publications of Menstrupédia. The comics introduce young teenagers to the mysteries of adolescence.
Menstrupedia is a publication for girls (and boys) aged 9-12, introducing puberty and menstrual health in an engaging and educational way. Presented in comic-book format, it uses charming stories to guide young readers into this fascinating topic. Its friendly language and illustrations make the subject feel natural and approachable – it’s also a great conversation starter. Girls approaching puberty can learn all about the changes awaiting them during their teenage years.
The comic is very practical – it covers technical topics in detail (for example, how to use sanitary pads, where to dispose of them, what PMS is, and how to track a menstrual cycle). I first encountered the comic at a contraception-related conference, where educational materials were being presented. The adorable drawings caught my attention immediately, and I quickly bought the ebook. As I read it, I couldn’t help but think, “I wish someone had talked to me about this topic in such a way when I was younger!” I wish the subject had been treated so simply, kindly, and naturally – instead of us hiding pad packages in our sweaters after “sex ed” classes! Even though I had no translation qualifications or publishing experience at the time, I knew this book had to be published in Hungarian – and it was.
Gulu- An essential guide to puberty for boys is the Menstrupedia’s companion book made especially for boys, helping them understand the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty. It covers healthy eating, exercise, shaving, and personal hygiene – not only for health reasons, but also to help boys feel confident and comfortable in social situations.
It also includes chapters on addiction and bullying, giving practical advice on how to recognize and avoid these issues. Naturally, it also talks about menstruation, so that boys understand what happens to girls – and how they can be supportive. After the success of Menstrupedia (with over 3,000 copies sold in just over two years without paid advertising), it was clear that I had to translate the boys’ edition as well. Work on the Hungarian edition began right after the Indian release, so that it could reach the many families who had long been waiting and asking for it.
The authors of the publications are Aditi Gupta and Tuhin Paul, social entrepreneurs from India. The idea for the comics came from their personal experiences: they met as university students, and Tuhin learned from Aditi that women menstruate every month. Until then, he had thought it was a one-time event in a woman’s life – and was completely shocked. This experience inspired them to dedicate their work to breaking the taboos surrounding menstruation. Over the years, Menstrupedia has reached millions of girls, helping them embrace puberty and its changes with positivity.