Menstruation, also known as a period, is a natural process that every woman goes through. However, the topic of menstruation has long been considered taboo and talking about it can make people feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Unfortunately, this has led to a lack of understanding and knowledge about periods, which can have a negative impact on women’s health and well-being. It is important for women to talk about their periods despite how uncomfortable it may be, as it can help break the stigma and promote better health.
One of the most significant reasons why women should talk about their periods is to break the taboo and stigma surrounding menstruation. In many cultures and societies, menstruation is considered a taboo topic and is shrouded in secrecy. This can lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment for women, which can affect their self-esteem and confidence. It can also make it difficult for them to seek help or advice when they are experiencing menstrual problems.
Talking openly and honestly about periods can help break down these barriers and reduce the stigma associated with menstruation. By sharing their experiences, women can help others feel more comfortable talking about their periods and seeking help when they need it. This can be particularly important for younger girls who may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their periods.
Moreover, breaking the taboo surrounding menstruation can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of women. For example, many women suffer from menstrual cramps or other menstrual problems, and may be too embarrassed to seek help. By talking openly about their experiences, women can help others understand that these problems are common and can be treated. This can encourage more women to seek medical advice, which can lead to better health outcomes.
In addition to breaking the stigma, talking about periods can also help women better understand their bodies and menstrual cycles. Many women are not taught about menstruation in school or at home, which can lead to confusion and misinformation. Further, many women with abnormal periods may not realize their experience is atypical, leading to delayed diagnoses of medical conditions, delayed implementation of treatment options and a longer impact on their daily life, unnecessarily. By talking openly about their experiences, women can share information and advice about menstrual health, including how to manage menstrual symptoms, how to choose the right menstrual products, and how to track their menstrual cycles.
This knowledge can be particularly important for young women who are just starting to menstruate. By learning about their bodies and menstrual cycles, they can become more empowered and confident in managing their periods. This can help them feel more in control of their bodies and reduce anxiety and stress around menstruation.
Another important reason why women should talk about their periods is to promote menstrual equity. Menstrual equity refers to the idea that all women should have access to safe, affordable, and appropriate menstrual products, as well as the education and resources needed to manage their periods with dignity. Unfortunately, many women around the world do not have access to these basic necessities, which can affect their health, education, and overall well-being.
By talking openly about periods, women can help raise awareness about menstrual equity and advocate for change. This can include advocating for policies that provide free or low-cost menstrual products in schools and public spaces, as well as supporting organizations that provide menstrual products and education to women in need.
In conclusion, it is important for women to talk about their periods despite how uncomfortable it may be. Breaking the taboo and stigma surrounding menstruation can have a positive impact on women’s health and well-being, as well as promote menstrual equity. By sharing their experiences, women can help others feel more comfortable talking about their periods, seek medical advice when needed, and become more empowered and confident in managing their menstrual health. It is time to break the silence and start talking openly about periods.
Source:
Sivanandan, L. (2017). Breaking the menstrual taboo: How to talk about periods. BMJ, 359, j4604. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.j4604
