We all breathe, we all eat, and we perform various functions throughout the day. Has anyone ever questioned these processes? Then why does everyone question the purity of the blood that is shed during periods?
Menstruation is an important aspect of a woman’s health and well-being. It is as natural and as vital as any other process, and yet, it is still a taboo issue in many countries.
If periods are just a sign of a well-functioning reproductive system, then why are discussions about them kept quiet? It is important for both women and men to be aware of menstruation as it is a normal bodily function. Women today excel in all spheres of life, and this menstrual discrimination seems like a very absurd idea. An average woman will have around 450 periods in her lifetime, beginning with her first cycle and ending with menopause. When totaled, this adds up to around 10 years — or approximately 3,500 days — of the average woman’s life spent menstruating.
Despite this, menstrual hygiene products are still considered taboo by many. Many people aren’t aware of the importance of using sanitary pads or tampons during their periods, and many feel embarrassed to ask questions or purchase them. All women need to talk more openly and positively about menstruation. We’re going to change that by normalizing menstruation through open discussions about it and equipping women with the knowledge they need to take care of their bodies during this time. Creating awareness and openness is one of the most effective ways to teach girls how to properly manage their menstrual hygiene.
Another really important issue that menstruation awareness helps with is educating young girls about their periods and hygiene. Because of the taboos in our society, some girls may not want to talk to their parents or family about their periods. Women should not hide their pads and tampons in their cupboards. The products are meant to be used, and it is better to be comfortable and safe than sorry. It’s time for us to stop hiding from the fact that periods exist! Menstruation shouldn’t be a secret topic—we need to acknowledge it, talk about it openly, and learn how to manage it in a way that works for us. We should also be empowered by our bodies, not embarrassed or ashamed by what they do when they need to clean themselves up once in a while.