Menstruation is a natural and physiological phenomenon that affects most women of childbearing age. Menstruation is also an indicator of women's health, fertility and well-being . However, menstruation is often experienced with discomfort, embarrassment and shame, both by women themselves and by society.
Why do we feel ashamed to talk about menstruation? There are several possible causes, including:
- The lack of information, education and awareness about the menstrual cycle , which generates ignorance, myths and taboos. Many women do not know well how their body works, the hormonal changes, symptoms and treatments associated with menstruation. Many people have misconceptions or negative ideas about menstruation, as a source of impurity, disease, weakness or curse.
- Gender-based discrimination , stigma and violence, which affect women in different areas of life. Women who menstruate are often excluded, isolated, humiliated or mistreated because of their status. Women who menstruate are also subject to social, religious or cultural restrictions, which limit their freedom, participation and opportunities.
- Lack of access to adequate products, services and infrastructure for the hygienic management of menstruation, which compromises women's health, dignity and comfort. Many women do not have access to safe, effective and affordable absorbent products, or must resort to improvised and precarious solutions. Many women do not have access to sanitation services, water, soap, toilets or private spaces for changing, washing and disposing of waste.
Being ashamed to talk about periods is a problem that affects not only women, but also men, family, school, work, community and society. Being ashamed to talk about periods prevents women from expressing their needs, rights and potential. Being ashamed to talk about periods hinders dialogue, understanding and solidarity between genders.
For this reason, it is important to break the silence and taboo around menstruation, and promote a culture of respect, acceptance and inclusion. Talking about menstruation means:
- Inform, educate and raise awareness about the menstrual cycle as a natural, normal and healthy process. Spread scientific, medical and psychological knowledge about menstruation, and dispel false myths and negative beliefs. Recognize the diversity and individuality of menstrual experiences, and value menstruation as a source of strength, pride and female identity.
- Combat gender-based discrimination , stigma and violence that penalizes women who menstruate. Protect women's human, legal and social rights, and ensure their safety, dignity and well-being. Promote women's participation and empowerment in all areas of life, and combat barriers and stereotypes that limit them.
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- Ensure access to adequate products, services and infrastructure for the hygienic management of menstruation, which improve women's quality of life. Support the development and dissemination of safe, effective, accessible and sustainable absorbent products that respond to women's needs and preferences. Provide sanitation, water, soap, toilets and private spaces for menstruating women, and facilitate their hygiene, health and comfort.
Talking about menstruation today is therefore a way to recognize, celebrate and support women, their health, their fertility and their well-being. Talking about menstruation today is an act of courage, honesty and respect towards ourselves, towards others and towards the world.
Shanti Dutt
EcoMoonLab