Let’s Talk About Periods

It doesn’t make sense that menstruation—a normal, healthy human function that happens to an estimated 50 percent of the population through much of their lives—carries so much stigma and shame. 

Even our language demonstrates our reluctance to talk openly about periods: some estimates counted 5,000 euphemisms for “menstruation” in 10 languages. Another recent study found that 42 percent of women have experienced “period shaming”—often from men. This study, commissioned by a period underwear company, found that 51 percent of men surveyed believe that it is inappropriate for women to talk openly about their periods. 

From the very moment our menstruation begins, girls are typically taught to speak in hushed tones, hide their menstrual products from men and boys, and believe that periods are unhygienic. Even the terminology “female hygiene products” and “sanitary napkins” reinforces this belief. 

Access to period products

This shame and stigma is hardly imaginary: it can be seen in our public places, and it’s built into our very economy when we examine access and cost. 

Period products aren’t seen as optional, so why are they taxed? That’s a question Canadian activists have been asking for years. Finally, in 2015, the Trudeau government did away with the “tampon tax” (as it is colloquially known) and made menstrual products tax free.

In the US and many other countries, period products are still taxed, and research shows that many struggle to afford them. It’s called “period poverty,” and it exists in Canada as well. One study found that a third of people with periods under age 25 struggle to afford these very necessary products.

When those with periods can’t afford menstrual products, it means they aren’t able to fully participate in society. Many activists are campaigning for free access to period products for everyone. 

Current regulations under Part II of the Canada Labour Code require employers to provide supplies such as toilet paper, soap, warm water, and a means to dry hands. The Government of Canada is considering adding menstrual products to that list and has embarked on a consultation and regulatory development process, with potential changes coming this year.

In schools, young activists are demanding period products provided for free, in the same way that other necessary products such as toilet paper and soap are provided for free. The BC government has already taken action to require all 60 of its school districts to provide free menstrual products for their students, while other governments are either considering similar steps or have already implemented them. 

Male education

Activists are also calling for increased male education, explaining that boys and men aren’t taught about menstruation, therefore adding to the confusion, stigma, and shame. In school puberty talks, for example, it’s commonplace to separate boys and girls and teach them separate topics. Years later, this may translate into a culture that doesn’t understand the importance of period product accessibility, and the cycle continues.

But wait—who gets periods, anyway? 

No, it’s not just girls and women. These days, language surrounding periods is also starting to change in terms of gender and pronouns. A more inclusive vocabulary is emerging that considers trans and non-binary people who have periods, which also helps to dismantle shame. Several companies are even changing their packaging and terminology.

Periods in pop culture and advertising

In popular culture and the media, we’re also seeing a pushback against the conventional period discourse. Runner Kiran Gandhi free-bled during the London Marathon in 2015 and was photographed with period blood on her clothes—an image that went viral. Also in 2015, an image from poet Rupi Kaur depicting period blood was removed from Instagram. (It was later restored, and Instagram says the removal was accidental.)

Meanwhile, some period product companies have been trying to fight to show more accurate depictions of periods and more frank language in advertising. A period underwear company recently sent shockwaves through major TV networks by showing a tampon string dangling from a pair of underwear. Another period product company has even run a TV commercial that shows red liquid, not the startlingly unnatural blue substance we’re so used to seeing. It’s hard to believe that only now is society coming to terms with seeing a red spot on a white pad, but it’s further proof of the deep shame and secrecy that we’re taught.

Days for Girls 

Days for Girls is an international non-governmental organization that creates period kits and provides health education and training for girls in more than 125 countries around the world. To date, it has reached more than 1.5 million girls and women worldwide, tackling stigma, spreading empowerment, and championing menstrual health. To learn more or to get involved, visit daysforgirls.org.

Period shame in other countries

Abroad in many countries, the stigma and shame is much more extreme, and many taboos exist. In some areas, menstruating girls and women are believed to be dirty and untouchable. This information leads to widespread human rights abuses:

• Menstruating girls and women are often excluded from everyday life and public places, forced into solitary confinement, and banned from bathing or preparing food.
• Oftentimes, girls are not allowed to attend school, meaning that they fall behind and may be forced to drop out completely.
• Workplaces often lack proper facilities, leaving menstruating women to lose out on work and wages.
• Girls and women often lack access to period products, so they are forced to use poor substitutes such as newspapers, socks, toilet paper, and rags. 
• An estimated 1.25 billion women and girls worldwide do not have access to safe, private toilet facilities during their periods—and 526 million have no access to a toilet at all.

Fight back

So, what can we do?

• Speak openly and inclusively about periods.
• Write feedback letters to companies and politicians.
• Advocate for accessible period products for your workplace, school, or public places.

Donate to, or volunteer with, organizations that fight period stigma and help provide period products overseas. 

Have a zero waste period!

For more info on reusable period products, visit alive.com/webexclusive

Leah Payne is a writer, editor, and sustainability influencer. Follow her at leahstellapayne.com and instagram.com/leahstellapayne. 

This article was originally published in the May 2020 issue of alive Canada, under the title "Let’s Talk About Periods."