It’s that time of the month; and time for change. If only everyone knew the real power of periods, we’d definitely talk about them more. So, it’s time for a red rewrite.
Menstruation. It’s commonly known as the “P-Word”. In your life, you might’ve heard of it referred to in a number of ways, from “aunt flo” to “shark week.” In fact, the International Women’s Health Coalition found in a survey that there are over 5,000 slang words used across the globe instead of “period”. So, why can’t we just call it as it is?
Despite its universality, menstruation continues to be shrouded in shame, secrecy, and stigma across cultures. From whispered conversations to covert trips to the restroom, periods are often treated as something that should be hidden or apologized for, contributing to a culture of embarrassment and discomfort.
I’ve you’re a menstruating person, you’ve probably been caught out with your period coming at a time when you weren’t prepared for it. In my first year of uni, during an induction lecture, surrounded by all these classmates I’d only just met for the first time, my period decided to surprise me. A lot of us were going out for drinks after, and I was sat on a chair, afraid to get up, well aware I had bled through the jeans I had meticulously picked out three days prior in order to make a good first impression. And there I was, unsure of what my next move was, and who in this room of people I barely knew, was I going to turn to for help.
Luckily, the girls beside me were a huge help, one even letting me go back to her flat and get changed into her clothes. Surrounded by a bunch of girls before then, in the bathroom, trying to clean up my bloody clothes and protect my dignity with a jacket wrapped round my waist, it was actually a moment where friendships were made, and bonds were formed, and not one person thought I made a terrible first impression simply because my period caught me by surprise, because everyone single one of those girls had gone through the same thing at some point in their life.
I tell this story to let anyone who’s just starting uni, or maybe just about to go into a new job, or any other big or small change in your life, that having your period isn’t embarrassing, and you’re going to be totally fine. I survived, and you will too.
Menstruators have been made to feel that their period is something to be ashamed of—a private matter that should never be spoken of publicly. But why? It’s time to break down these barriers and ask: why should we be embarrassed about a completely natural function?
Instead, let’s talk about the reasons why periods are actually pretty incredible. Everything about your menstrual cycle is amazing, from the fact it allows you to create human life, to the realisation that being aware of your cycle means you can use it to be the best, most productive, and happiest version of yourself.
Periods Are a Biological Necessity, Not a “Problem”
Menstruation is a sign of healthy reproductive function. The menstrual cycle is vital for fertility and is a core aspect of overall health for many people. Yet, despite this, the language surrounding periods often frames them as an inconvenience, a “problem,” or something dirty. This perception is deeply harmful. Destigmatizing periods allows people to view them as a normal part of life, reducing the stress, shame, and anxiety that many associate with menstruation. Let’s think about periods as part of the process of one of the miracles of life that is being able to create another actual human being. I’d say that’s pretty extraordinary, rather than embarrassing.
Beyond Gender Bias: Embracing Periods for a More Inclusive Society
Destigmatizing periods doesn’t just benefit those who menstruate; it benefits everyone. Period stigma reinforces harmful gender norms that perpetuate the idea that women and people who menstruate are inherently “unclean” or “irrational.” By challenging these stereotypes, we can work toward a more inclusive society where menstruation is recognized as a normal bodily function rather than a source of shame. This also empowers men and non-menstruating people to engage in the conversation and support those who menstruate without feeling awkward or embarrassed.
Power in Your Period: Transforming Wellness by Understanding Your Cycle
While periods are often associated with discomfort or fatigue, the entire cycle—composed of different hormonal phases—actually holds unique opportunities for enhanced focus, creativity, and productivity.
Beyond productivity, being attuned to the menstrual cycle can significantly improve mental and physical well-being. Tracking symptoms and energy levels throughout the cycle empowers menstruators to anticipate their needs and prevent burnout. Self-care strategies like adjusting exercise routines, nutrition, and social commitments to align with the phases of the cycle can lead to greater balance and overall health.
When workplaces and organizations recognize the impact of the menstrual cycle, they can create environments that support employees in their natural rhythms. Flexible work arrangements, understanding of menstrual-related challenges, and open dialogue can improve employee well-being and productivity. Destigmatizing periods allows workplaces to become more inclusive and supportive of menstruators, enhancing both job satisfaction and performance.
By embracing the menstrual cycle, people who menstruate can learn to harness its power, working with their bodies rather than against them. This shift in perspective can lead to improved productivity, creativity, and a deeper connection with one’s own health and well-being.
Unblocking the flow: Improving Access to Education and Healthcare
The stigma around periods often leads to a lack of education about menstrual health. When periods are treated as taboo, young people may feel embarrassed to ask questions, leaving them uninformed about how to manage their health. This can result in serious health issues being ignored. Destigmatizing periods ensures that people feel comfortable seeking medical advice and talking openly about their experiences, ultimately leading to better healthcare outcomes.
Period poverty—the lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual education, and hygiene facilities—affects millions worldwide. Many people are forced to use unsafe materials or miss out on school and work due to a lack of resources. By normalizing conversations about menstruation, we can advocate for policies that ensure menstrual products are affordable and accessible for everyone. Addressing period stigma is a crucial step toward gender equality and ensuring that menstruators are not disadvantaged by their biology.
Destigmatizing periods is not just about normalizing a natural process; it’s about creating a world where menstruators feel empowered, informed, and respected. By breaking down the barriers of silence and shame, we pave the way for greater equality, productivity, and well-being for all.
I believe the real “P-word” is “power”—because when you start to own your period with pride, you unlock the strength that comes with it.
