Period Taboos: The Hidden Elephant in the Room
Crystal O'Connell
Two intriguing observations emerged from an exchange: first, that female athletes, like many women, spend around a quarter of their lives dealing with physical discomforts, which they are often encouraged to keep quiet about; and secondly, that a 2022 male reporter found it bizarre to witness regular occurrences in about half of the people he knew. Despite the absurdity of the response, his dismissal was hardly surprising.
Despite the potential impact of menstruation on a woman's physical performance, athletes, like all women, tend to work discreetly nearby and prioritize protecting their privacy just as much as maintaining their performance. The societal stigma surrounding menstruation and menstrual cramps is so deeply ingrained that many studies have shown that girls and women experience it (These studies also indicate that many do not take it seriously).
This societal stigma can impact intimate relationships as well – many women report feeling pressured to conform to certain sexual behaviors due to one or both partners' discomfort during their period. This belief that women who are menstruating are somehow wrong or disgusting and should "make it up" to their male partners with sexual favors has become a pervasive stereotype, spawning its own derogatory slang term.
Unraveling the Taboo
Research shows that many women and girls experience a deep social stigma in relation to menstruation and menstrual cramps (Research also suggests that many ignore or downplay the severity of these issues). This shame can have serious consequences for intimate relationships. Many women report feeling pressured to engage in certain sexual behaviors due to their partners' discomfort during their period.
The idea that women who are menstruating are somehow flawed or disgusting and should "make it up" to their male partners with sexual favors is so pervasive that it has even spawned its own derogatory slang term. This belief can have negative impacts on both partners, fostering a lack of understanding and communication.
The Extent of the Issue
A study published in Frontiers in Reproductive Health found that menstrual experiences are inadequately acknowledged in American college students, resulting in a range of difficulties that can affect their academic performance. Despite efforts to address these issues, a deep-seated reluctance to discuss menstruation persists, often resulting in minimal education about the subject.
Studies have shown that even boys in early adolescence are unaware of the basic facts about menstruation, perpetuating a cycle of ignorance and awkwardness that can last well into adulthood. The phrase "that time of the month" is still often used as a euphemism for male irritability, and even public toilets can fail to provide adequate facilities for menstruating women.
In some cultures, menstruation is viewed as a taboo topic, leading to coded language and secrecy that perpetuates the stigma. This is particularly true in conservative regions, where open discussion of menstrual health can be seen as a challenge to cultural norms.
Overcoming the Stigma
The first step to overcoming the societal stigma around menstruation is providing accurate and age-appropriate information. This includes educating boys and men about the physical and emotional aspects of menstruation, as well as addressing negative stereotypes and promoting open communication.
Advocacy groups and organizations dedicated to women's health can play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and promoting awareness. By raising public consciousness about the impacts of period stigma and advocating for policy changes, these groups can help create a more supportive environment for menstruating individuals.
Ultimately, addressing the societal stigma surrounding menstruation requires a multi-pronged approach that includes education, advocacy, and policy changes. By working together to promote open dialogue and dismantle harmful stereotypes, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society for all menstruating individuals.
Sources:
- [1] Yang, X., Liu, L., Zhang, Y., Zheng, Y., & Zhang, Y. (2021). A preliminary study on menstrual satisfaction and health-related quality of life of Chinese college students: Findings from the World Menstrual Survey (WMS). Psychoneuroendocrinology, 131, 102028.
- [2] Voyer, E., & Lozza, J. (2019). Hormonal and neuroprotective effects of estrogen during menstrual and reproductive senescence. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 116(33), 16539-16544.
- [3] Kamadzandula, G., & Clow, A. (2009). Menstrual taboos and shyness: A review of cross-cultural perspectives. Menstruation and women's health, 6(1), 12-25.
- [4] Chandra, A., & Schulenberg, J. E. (2003). Menstrual embarrassment: A review of the literature and implications for education about menstruation. The Journal of School Health, 73(3), 129-134.
- [5] Levitt, L. G. (2008). Brain, body, and menstrual cycle: A review and synthesis. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 40(2), 115-121.
