Let’s talk about periods, baby!
The first step in breaking down the stigma of menstruation is talking about it. The more conversations around this topic, the closer we get to a world where everyone feels comfortable and confident about their periods.
Talk to your Children.
Make sure you talk to all of your children about it, whether or not they will get a period. It is important that they understand what is happening in their bodies or in those of their peers. Kids often adopt the feelings of those close to them, so if you show discomfort talking about it they are likely to feel uncomfortable about periods. Make it clear that periods can be openly talked about and they have no reason to feel awkward around the subject. There are some great resources for talking to your kids about periods:
Talk to your parents, caregivers, or adult relatives.
When you first get your period, tell an adult you trust. No one should have to navigate menstruation on their own. If you are uncomfortable having that conversation face to face, try writing a letter or text first. You can work up from there to talking openly about periods. The adults you are talking to may feel uncomfortable about the subject themselves, and you can help them understand that periods don’t have to be a taboo subject and that we can all be the solution to the stigma around menstruation. Try to talk to your relatives that don’t get periods as well. Maybe ask them to buy menstrual products for you. The more you talk about periods, the more comfortable you will feel about them.
Talk to your friends and peers.
Friends are a great resource for menstrual information. You can talk to them about anything strange that happened during your period or ask them any questions that you have. If you don’t get a period, don’t be embarrassed to ask someone who does about theirs. On the reverse, answer any questions that anyone has if you can and help them figure it out if you don’t know the answer. Share any new things you learned about menstruation. Keep a stash of menstrual products for the people who will inevitably forget them. Most importantly, just talk about periods! It doesn’t have to be such an awkward subject.