HOW TO BE MORE INCLUSIVE IN PERIODS’ CONVERSATION

I’m down”, “I’m on my, you know”, the list can go on. We seldom hear people or let’s get real, even women who get their periods say the term “I am on my Periods” out and loud because it’s stigmatized in our societies.

People look at periods as a thing of shame and need to be kept a secret when it’s glorious to celebrate your bodies, your hormones, your good health and so much more.   Our societies have shushed the people around to openly talk about Periods leading to a lack of information, misguidance, and myths around the topic. It’s crucial to impart knowledge at a young age to destigmatize the notion around Periods to build up confidence and healthy habits.

4 WAYS YOU CAN BE INCLUSIVE IN PERIOD CONVERSATION

1. AVOID REFERRING TO PERIODS IN TERMS OF JUST WOMEN

Periods it not just limited to women. It’s imperative to include and accept the fact that
transgenders, binary people, cisgenders may get their periods too. Hence, it’s crucial
to broaden the idea and quit referring to Periods solely in terms of women and
products in terms of Women’s hygiene products or Feminine Hygiene Products and
start using the actual terms like sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Start
using gender-neutral language.

2. MAKE MEN AND BOYS COMFORTABLE AROUND THE IDEA OF PERIODS

A lot of people in our society still do not openly talk about their periods in front of
male figures in their families and friends. Start by openly mentioning it and making
each other comfortable about it. It’s okay to ask your father or brother or boyfriend to
help you with the supplies. Let the men understand that emotional swings are natural
and it’s important that each of us take it in stride.

3. UNDERSTAND PERIOD POVERTY

Giving knowledge and talking about the myths that revolve around periods in a lot of
countries like India and Nepal has become a need of the hour. A lot of
underprivileged communities still do not have access to complete knowledge around
the topic and proper sanitary and health requirements. They cannot afford the supplies
which forces them to use rags and cotton cloths leading to health risks that involve
Urinary Tract Infections, Reproductive Issues as well as mental Illnesses. All of us
need to stand in unison and ask for a tax-free period.

4. EMPATHIZE WITH MENSTRUATORS

Not every menstruating person has a good relation with Periods. It can trigger people
who might have had a bad experience revolving around periods – like miscarriages,
sexual assault, unbearable pains, etc. Be more empathetic and understanding towards
people who menstruate.

These are a few points that can help destigmatize Periods. We understand it’s a long journey
towards a more period positive society and environment, especially in developing countries around the world. Every step towards a more inclusive health conversation, be it menstruation or breast cancer or any taboo-ed topic, is a step towards winning over any stigma.

Do let us know, what kind of phrases do you get to hear on Periods. Let’s start this conversation, today.