Q. What if you were unaware of the necessity to perform Ghusl after making Shahadah?
A. It is highly likely that since making Shahadah you will have performed Ghusl for one reason or another. What matters however is that you make Ghusl with intention which in this case would be that you have accepted Islam as opposed to performing Ghusl because of impurity.

It should not become an issue of grave concern for you as you should know that Allah will forgive you for any mistakes made before you had knowledge about it.

Q. Can a woman make the Shahadah when she is menstruating?
A. Yes.

Q. Is it allowed to practise Islam in secret?
A. It is allowed to practise Islam in secret, in this or any society (even a predominantly Muslim one), that makes it difficult for the individual to be a Muslim. It may well be that family, work colleagues or friends may react in a manner that may jeopardise relationships or make very difficult one's practice of Islam.

It has to be remembered though, that we are all human and therefore prone to weakness and frailties. In spite of our sincere intention to turn to a better life evil not only continues to exist but also appears to increase in magnitude in an attempt to dissuade us from the true path.

It is important therefore for the Muslim community to be aware of your choosing Islam as your way of life because of the benefit to you in having access to that individual and community support necessary in a society which puts constant pressure on your beliefs.

In this case as with many other choices in life and in consideration of you own circumstances, apart from the Muslim community, it is perhaps best to be selective about whom you choose to share your new direction in life.

It is also very important for the rest of us as Muslims to be careful before we criticise another Muslim with regard to particular situations since it may be that circumstances demand it of him and in our limited capability we are unable to both see and understand such circumstances.