Thank you for raising this sincerely.

Short answer

• In Jain Dharma, menstruation does not make the soul impure. The soul’s purity depends on bhāva (inner state), not on the body.
• Traditional maryādā (discipline) in many sanghs asks women to avoid touching idols, pāṭhasālā texts, and pūjā-articles during rajasvalā (menstruation). This is a ritual-purity rule, not a judgement about spiritual worth.
• Pratikraman itself is never “forbidden” to you. It can be done by bhāva: listening, recalling, or reciting mentally.

Why the restriction exists

• It is a long-standing achar (code) to keep sacred objects and places free from any possibility of soiling and to allow physical rest. Historically it was about hygiene and steadiness, not about declaring a woman impure.
• Jain texts consistently teach that puṇya/pāp arise from intentions and actions of the mind, speech, and body; biological cycles are not a moral fault.

Differences in traditions

• Śvetāmbara: Common practice is to refrain from touching idols and scriptures for the rajasvalā days. Bhāva-pratikraman, listening to pratikraman, and mental recitation are encouraged.
• Digambara: Similar or a bit stricter in maryādā about touching mūrtis and granthas. Bhāva-pratikraman remains fully acceptable.
• In both, there is no doctrine that a menstruating woman is spiritually inferior. The restriction is ritual-only.

Practical, respectful ways to do pratikraman these days

• Do bhāva-pratikraman: sit in samayik, reflect, confess (ālochana), and resolve (pratyākhyān) mentally.
• Listen to an audio or follow along without touching the book.
• Keep the book on a stand and turn pages using a clean cloth, or use a device if your local maryādā allows.
• If your sangh’s ācārya permits, you may read directly from your personal book; maryādā varies by sangh, so follow your local guidance.

Essence to remember

• Jain Dharma does not label you “impure.” The goal of pratikraman is inner cleansing—stopping hiṁsā, anger, pride, deceit, greed, and strengthening vows. Your sincere intention and mindfulness are what matter most.
• If a local rule feels unfair, discuss it politely with your elders or ācārya. Many communities already accommodate bhāva-first observance while honoring tradition.

If you want a simple, book-free outline for bhāva-pratikraman at home, you can use: samayik bhāva, ālochana (honest review of faults), pratyākhyān (firm resolve to avoid them), forgiveness (kṣamāpanā), and maitri-bhāvanā for all beings.