What is period shaming?
Period shaming is basically when someone is rendered impure and treated unusually, when going through their monthly menstrual cycle. She is made to believe that it is something which can only be discussed in private and solely with other women. Every activity is frowned upon from buying sanitary products to discussing it openly.
Where and why does it occur?
It is not only prevalent in India but other countries as well. Some of them being US, France, Italy, Brazil and even more.
Myths about menstruation are different everywhere and all of them are completely absurd. But all these myths circle back to the notion of impurity and defilement. It’s a taboo and there is absolutely no justification for the argument and this unjust frame of mind. The only answer provided for this sort of discrimination is religious beliefs and rituals.
Also on a political standpoint, these beliefs are favored greatly and leaders choose not to take a stand for those who bleed. The so called protectors of religion and patriarchs pressurize on following those unreasonable rules. With awareness and proper education about the subject, majority of the population have started realizing and busting all the myths that prevail.
What are some common beliefs about periods?
Most common ones include secluding the menstruating individual from the rest of the house. They are supposed to sleep in a different room and also eat in the same. They are considered “unclean” and not allowed to enter the kitchen and cook. Most widely believed is one should not enter any place of worship or engage in any worship or prayer related activity. In France, there is supposedly a myth that menstruating women should not make mayonnaise and it will curdle if you do so. As ridiculous as it sounds there are many more awful ones.
Apart from this, it is also not considered acceptable for people to talk openly about periods. Even though experiencing a lot of discomfort, fluctuation in hormones and pain, they are supposed to discuss it privately or not talk about it at all. I guess every one of us remembers our experience from schooldays about people whispering and grinning at the sight of a blood stained skirt. The mere teenager is made fun of when she needs some emotional comfort and assurance the most. I personally also recall sneaking the sanitary pads in the pocket so that no other classmate of mine catches a glimpse. Also not to mention, even the shopkeeper wraps it in a paper or a black bag and gives it like an illegal concealed weapon.
According to the National Family Health Survey, only 36% of women in India use sanitary pads. Among many reasons, one reason is the shame that revolves around keeping menstruation a private matter, and the women end up using unhygienic clothes, leaves and even ash.
With growing awareness and availability there should be an improvement in these figures. Also with new products hitting the market like tampons and menstrual cups, there are taboos associated with them too. According to some, you are not supposed to tamper with your body and insert anything inside your vagina or it might hinder with your virginity and make you “impure”. And this completely dumb assumption is believed even by people living in urban cities and educated society.
Even while working the capabilities are questioned and made fun of her PMSing, which is although an important issue in itself. Phrases like “Are you down” or “Is it that time of the month” are continuously used to dismiss the real issue or concern. Hopefully with good communication and information these myths and insensitivity can be dealt with.
A brilliant short film on periods: https://youtu.be/jWN4GQE_vXM
Astonishing case studies
In Sabarimala Temple, Kerala, entry of women of the menstruating age was restricted since 1991 until the Supreme Court lifted the ban in 2018. This ban was not just a religious belief but the High Court had the authority to restrict entry of women. After a lot of debate and petitions the entry is again allowed for women regardless of their age in the temple.
In Bhuj town of Kutch district in the state of Gujarat, around 60 female students were allegedly forced to strip and check if they are menstruating. It has been reported that they had maintained a register to record the menstrual dates of the students in order to seclude them from the rest. When the students refused to maintain the register and engage in daily meals with other girls, the authorities forced them to remove their clothes. An FIR was filed and the principal, rector and peon were suspended, but no arrest still took place even after such a horrific incident. This took place in 2020, where we believe slowly and steadily the perspective is changing. But is it?
Read the full information about above mentioned incidents:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-51504992
https://www.ingenere.it/en/articles/women-entered-india-sabarimala-temple
How can be rise above this?
First of all let’s try and understand that getting periods is natural and there is nothing to mock or be embarrassed about. We can start by talking about periods to our closest people and explaining them how you actually feel. Initiate with trusted family members and valued friends. You can also reach out to your guardians like teachers. Seeking professional help and visiting a doctor, can help understand menstruation in a much better way.
Normalize sharing and communication and it is so going to help you and will strengthen the relationship you share.
It also goes without saying that parents should understand and educate their children especially teenagers. It is a very crucial learning age and talking to them about menstrual and personal hygiene can make them feel more secure. This should be same for either gender. A female has to know about menstruation because it is going to be a significant part of her life, but a male should also be taught about the subject. This helps in creating a more considerate and liberal environment in schools and also help them grow as an individual. A teenager should feel complacent while sharing or talking about sexual health.
Don’t accept something just because it is an easier alternative. Take a stand and speak up for what you believe in, and is right. Correct people who force their ideas about menstruation and how degrading their mentality is. Educate people and spread awareness amongst those who are in need.
We can donate to non-profit organizations, which aids to provide low cost or free sanitary products. Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) is one such mission launched for taking care of menstruating teenagers in rural areas. With smaller yet significant steps the goal of normalizing menstruation can be achieved.
Detailed informative sources for understanding menstruation:
https://youtu.be/ayzN5f3qN8g
https://youtu.be/i_wLL1aRNaM
https://youtu.be/cjbgZwgdY7Q
