A historical event was marked as the first ever period pain simulator was unveiled in the programme titled 'Cramp Swap' at LCRI hall on Wednesday, 8th February organized by the Department of Sociology of St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) Mangaluru.

The HOD of the Department of Sociology, Prof. Joan Rita O'Brien welcomed the gathering and shared her experience about period cramps giving an insight of how difficult it is for a woman to go through this pain when she menstruates every month as well as taking care of her home or work responsibilities.

The Chief Guest for the programme - Dr. Sandra Sunitha Lobo (HOD - Department of Psychology, School Of Social Work, Roshini Nilaya) and the President of the programme - Dr. Praveen Martis SJ (Principal, St. Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru) unveiled the first period simulator in Karnataka. The Registrar - Dr. Allwyn D’Sa, the Director of the administrative block - Dr. Charles Furtado and the Dean of the faculty of arts - Dr. Rose Veera D’Souza were also present.

Addressing the gathering Dr. Sandra Sunitha Lobo said “The people who experience menstruation usually hesitate to speak about menstruation. Women are more sensitive to pain than men and also they are more expressive about the same. Some men think women are overreacting about pain during periods, but actually it is the reality. Women and girls have more nerve density and that is the reason why we are more sensitive. This period pain simulator will lead to better social connections and give you a short experience of the pain that women go through. The ‘period cramp’ is just one factor among others that women and girls go through while menstruating.” Dr. Sandra Sunita Lobo concluded by enunciating the mantra “Yes pain! Yes gain!”

The Principal,St. Aloysius College - Dr. Praveen Martis SJ in his presidential remark said “Women bear this pain every month which is not easy. Men should have the sensitivity to understand that pain. In most of the places, it is a male dominating and patriarchal society. Women cannot express their feelings due to social pressure. Men should understand his female partner and give her dignity. Women should be able to walk at midnight without any fear. But that still does not happen. Look at others as brothers and sisters and that will definitely help to change the society.”

The assistant professor of the Department of Sociology - Mrs. Savitha D'Souza rendered the vote of thanks and student Jissmon compered the event.

On the completion of the formal program the students and staff willing to volunteer were given an opportunity to experience the period cramps pain with the help of the simulator. The Period pain simulator was proven unbearable for some and an eye-opener for others. Many could not tolerate the maximum intensity of pain induced by the simulator. The programme ended with a lot of insight into the plight of women during periods.