The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chayim 134:2) says it is a mitzvah for men and women to look at the writing of the Sefer Torah when it is raised up during hagbah in shul. However, a custom is recorded among some Ashkenazi acharonim that a woman during her menstrual period should not look at an open sefer Torah. This custom continues among some Ashkenazi families and communities, but is not widely practiced today. 

Regarding a woman during her period touching a sefer Torah: In Sephardi communities this is generally permitted, whereas among Ashkenazi communities, customs vary. Some rabbis are restrictive regarding women's access to the sefer Torah, partially because of concern that women during menstruation might unknowingly touch the Torah. Other communities do not follow the custom and rabbinic leaders permit women to touch a sefer Torah. 

A woman who is in niddah is permitted to read the Megillah.

For a more extensive discussion of this topic, please see this article on the Deracheha site.

Kol hakavod on your halacha study!  Have a happy Purim!

This response was updated on 11 November, 2025.