Roughly half our trekkers may face this question, yet it's the least-discussed topic in trekking. Here's the practical version, compiled with our women trek leaders.
Yes, you can trek on your period
There is no medical reason to skip a trek while menstruating. Altitude can make cramps feel stronger for some and travel can shift cycle timing, so carry supplies even if your dates 'shouldn't' overlap the trek.
What works best up there
Menstrual cups are the favourite among our regulars — no waste to carry, longer wear time, and unaffected by cold. Tampons and pads work fine too; pack them in a zip pouch with a few opaque disposal bags. Wet wipes (biodegradable) and a small sanitiser complete the kit.
Disposal: the one hard rule
Nothing gets buried or left on the mountain — used products go into your disposal bag and come down with the camp waste. Every TrekNova campsite has a waste system for exactly this; hand it over without hesitation.
Comfort at camp
A hot water bottle from the kitchen tent helps cramps at night — just ask. Toilet tents are private and gender-separated, and our women trek leaders are always available for anything you'd rather not raise with the group. Periods are logistics, not limitations.