Answer

In Jain tradition, practices around menstruation can vary by sect, sampradāy, gaccha, and local custom.

Generally:

• Meeting sādhus or sādhvīs in upāśray during periods: In many traditional Jain communities, women are advised not to go to the upāśray or sit very close to sādhus/sādhvīs during menstruation, out of respect for established maryādā and purity-related customs.
• Pratikraman and Sāmāyik during periods: Many women continue internal religious practice such as bhāv, reflection, repentance, navkār mantra, and mental sāmāyik at home. Some traditions may advise avoiding formal ritual performance with specific postures, muhapatti, pūjā items, or upāśray setting during those days.

Explanation

Menstruation itself is not considered a “sin” in Jain Dharma. It is a natural bodily process. However, Jain practice also gives importance to:

• śuddhi — purity and discipline in religious conduct,
• maryādā — traditional boundaries followed in the saṅgh,
• respect for sādhus and sādhvīs — following the customs of the specific upāśray or guru-paramparā.

Because customs differ, the most proper approach is to ask the sādhvījī, gurubhagwant, or senior śrāvaks/śrāvikās of your own saṅgh about the rule followed there.

Spiritual Understanding

Even if one does not go to the upāśray during periods, spiritual practice should not stop. You can still do:

• Navkār Mantra,
• mental repentance for mistakes,
• reading or listening to Jain teachings,
• peaceful reflection on ahiṃsā, saṃyam, and forgiveness,
• bhāv-pratikraman at home, according to your family and sampradāy’s practice.

The inner bhāv is very important in Jain Dharma.

Takeaway

During periods, follow the maryādā of your own Jain tradition and upāśray. If formal upāśray visit, pratikraman, or sāmāyik is restricted in your community, continue devotion and inner practice at home with pure bhāv.