Menstruation Talks

Photo from NPR Org

When the puberty bus hits me with my first menstruation (mood swings, funny body odor, sans breast growth), I worry about how society's expectations might define the world for girls.

"You have to be more careful now," mothers and aunties would say. But what did they mean by "careful"?
People would comment on our looks, skin fairness, and how we should behave and dress because apparently, we are responsible for sexual crimes.

What struck me was that they avoided the word "menstruation." Instead, they used phrases like "Aunt Flow," "Palang Merah," or "Datang Bulan" because discussing puberty is taboo.

It's not that these phrases are immoral, but oh but ..
They distract from crucial topics such as menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, proper nutrition for hormonal balance, and the fact that girls and women can still play sports.

A 2018 study revealed that between ages 8-14, girls’ confidence drops by 30 percent. Boys experience drops too, but at 14, when girls are at their lowest, boys' confidence is still 27% higher. See how the domino effect can go far?

While the formula to changing the above can be intricate and detailed, I know how we can create change.

It's all on us.

Revising how we speak to girls (and boys) is the first step to breaking the stigma.

Say it as it is. Menstruation.
*Period.

*pun intended

(Here are some links with insightful tips on talking about menstruation and puberty with your children: Voices of Youth on Menstruation, On Puberty, Tweens and Puberty.)