I never had what I would call a ‘positive relationship’ with periods growing and after getting my first period aged 14, I found it hard to embrace my unwelcome visitor. But here’s the thing, I was never taught that ‘having periods’ was a ‘good thing’ and when my periods would last weeks, sometimes months – yes that is a thing, I felt ‘gross’. And when I would hear my friends moaning about how they had to endure a ‘5 day period’ I felt like asking them how they would feel if their vagina never stopped bleeding. Heck when I told them that the average length of my ‘period’ was 14 days and heavy, even on the last day they looked at me like I was some sort of freak and truth is I felt like I was a little bit weird.
After all, if all my friends were having 5 day periods then why on earth were mine so God damn heavy and long? And the doctors were just as perplexed as I was; even to this day, the official diagnosis around my lengthy periods remain a mystery. To top off the quite literal cherry on the cake, there would be months where I didn’t even have a period at all, so I never knew when my period would pay me a visit. When I got an implant in aged 17, after the ‘pill’ was no longer an option, my periods went from bad to worse. During my three years of having an implant, I would have a three month period where I would not bleed at all and then 5 months where on and off I would be bleeding pretty much every day. It sounds like something that I have made up but the truth is during those three years I would be bleeding for most of the year.
And how are my periods now I hear you ask? While I am no longer bleeding for months on end, I still have periods most months and they typically last between 14-17 days. I get heavy cramps that are sometimes so painful that I cry in pain and my stomach is almost always bloated. My skin breaks out frequently and I often have nausea and fevers alongside my periods. But here’s the thing, the one thing that they didn’t teach you in SEX ED, not all periods should be seen as bad. In fact without periods, our life expectancy would be reduced by 4%, we wouldn’t have an excuse to eat tubs of ice cream in our pj’s and above all we need our periods to ‘cleanse our body’.
Yes that’s right you heard me… but how on earth can ‘blood’ cleanse your body and rid it of harmful toxins? Well the truth is our period cycles bring ‘good bacteria’ into the body, which can prevent against diseases like Alzheimer’s, strokes or cardiovascular diseases. So while our periods might make us feel like poop, why aren’t we period positive yet if it prevents against diseases, cleanses your body and is an ‘indicator’ of health? The problem is, experiences like mine where I have no diagnosis for why I bleed for such a long period of time and the chronic pain that I get alongside it means that automatically we are conditioned by our ‘conditions’ to have an ‘unhealthy relationship’ with our periods. After all it’s hard to be overjoyed by something that brings you pain! But as part of my ‘feel good week’ I have made it my mission to explore why we should be more period positive in 2017.
- Because We Have Vaginas. Freaking Embrace It.
I get that it is hard to be period positive, when we have been conditioned from a young age to see our periods as ‘disgusting’ After all I have lost count of the amount of times I have been told ‘its disgusting to leak through clothes and bedding’, when questioning others about their attitudes towards periods. And I must admit I was once this girl; I was out with friends during a night out and slept over at a friends. In the morning I was horrified to see that I had leaked through the bedding and couldn’t apologize enough. But why should I be made to apologize? Society makes us feel like we should be embarrassed to talk about our bodies and be open about our periods but we shouldn’t be. Its why I wrote this post. Not only did I want to challenge my own views on periods but I wanted to show others that actually having a vagina is fucking awesome. Hell, we can have sex, piss in a toilet without people watching us- unless you have little ones- and pleasure ourselves as much as we want to. I know that it seems to be ‘legendary’ for men to talk about wanking but I have lost count of the amount of people who have told me ‘to not talk about sex’ because its ‘unladylike’. Oh I am sorry does my sex chat offend your prudish ears, kindly go wait another room because s**t’s about to get graphic from here on. So you can imagine people’s reaction when I talk about ‘periods’, I can picture the comments now ‘keep it private’ or ‘that’s disgusting, why would you talk about your vagina’. Well let me tell you something? Why is it that when a guy talks about his dick he is celebrated but when someone who identifies as a woman tries to create an open and healthy discourse around menstruation she is vilified. It just doesn’t make sense!
But here is why our vagina’s are awesome-and if you’re a male reader don’t worry dicks are great too!
- Period’s unite us. Our ‘shared genitalia’ aka vagina, va jay jay, pussy, whatever you want to call it means that we are all part of a ‘valued community’called the vagina club. Whether you call your vagina fairy or ‘fadge’ doesn’t make a difference.
- Vagina’s are strong. When we get pregnant or give birth, we have to endure high levels of pain. So in a way having periods are ‘mini preparations’ for the pain we have to withstand during labor. When a guy gets kicked in the nuts he squeals, but we push ‘literal life’ through our vagina’s and are not rewarded? Come on, if there weren’t vagina’s we wouldn’t have humanity and without humanity our world would cease to exist.
- Period’s Make Us Healthy- not only do periods help us regulate and protect against diseases like Alzheimer’s but without periods, we wouldn’t celebrate our vagina’s each month. Sure society might not appreciate us being loud and proud about our periods but who gives a fuck. I certainly don’t.
2. To Be Better Role Models To Our Children, Friends and Colleagues
I grew up in a non period positive environment and was often shamed for having heavy flow periods. When so called friends would see ‘tampons’ and pads in my bag they would laugh and throw them out of my bag so that people in my class could laugh at me. But why were they laughing? Well because A. vagina’s are seen as something to poke fun at and B. because ‘tampons and pads are seen as a taboo. I have lost count of the amount of times growing up that I would get embarrassed about buying ‘supplies’ as I would glance over at the cashier who would give me that ‘look’. But why should we care what some strangers think? At the end of the day it is our bodies and the better we are at being period positive and embracing our time (s) of the month, the more of a role model we can be for those who look up to us. If I grew up thinking that periods were the freaking bees knees then maybe it wouldn’t have taken me so long to ‘practice period positivity’ but I’m glad that I know now. Young children are impressionable so we should show them that having periods does not make them ‘abnormal’. But ‘complaining’ about your periods and about how much you hate them will only show them that period’s are a negative process when it is the complete opposite.
Sure no one likes getting cramps and having blood gushing out your fanny is not something I’m going to throw a party about. But and its a big but, ‘we shouldn’t project our embarrassment on the people around us. After all, imagine telling your daughter about how much you ‘hate your period’ that’s not going to make her be period positive now is it?
But how can we better role models to our loved ones and be more period positive in the process?
- Don’t shut them down when they have questions about your period. Even if its your male neighbor who is confused about how periods work, don’t be embarrassed. Its perfectly natural to have someone ask you questions so you should be as open and honest as possible. Even if it is your two year old daughter whose asking why ‘mummy is bleeding’ instead of telling them to get out, tell them in age appropriate terms what is going on. I remember having a friend whose son went into the bathroom when she was on her period and he exclaimed ‘ew yuck’. But it’s not yuck and as she explained to him that she needed it to be ‘healthy’ he realized that periods were not something to be disgusted by. It is the positive attitude that we need to ensure loved ones are period positive.
- Don’t be afraid to use ‘clinical terminology’. Your kids might not understand at the time, but often people create nicknames out of embarrassment. Now in my case I tend to call my ‘vagina’ well vagina but in other peoples cases they may call it a nickname like ‘noon’ or ‘fanny’ which while not harmful can be often used to mask your embarrassment. Instead create diagrams and educate children on things like the labia, vulva ect and create menstruation cycle charts that show them how periods work. It’s so important to remove the stigma or taboo associated with periods. Period talk is nothing to be embarrassed about.
3. To Help Others Talk About Their Periods Too
Why should we have to use code words and talk about our periods behind closed doors? Because society thinks it is ‘gross’ if we bleed on our beds? God forbid we buy tampons and pads in public, after all isn’t that what ‘online shopping’ is for? LOL. And don’t even get me started on those who rant against buying reusable sanitary pads, because it’s my body and i’m bloody well reusing my pads if I damn well please. But all jokes aside we really do need to talk about periods. Because if we don’t talk about them then who will? So here I am talking about my period; I bleed for weeks at a time, have major level of cramps and even wearing a super plus tampon and pad is sometimes not enough to stem my menstrual flow. But that’s ok. It’s not disgusting and don’t let anyone let you feel that way. Menstruation is nothing to be ashamed of and the sooner we get to grips with that the better.
Which brings me to my next point, I remember having a group discussion with friends about ‘period sex’ and while the majority of them said they hadn’t had sex on their period, I said that I had because as you remember when I was on my implant I was on my period a hell of a lot. Queue the chorus of groans and ‘ews’ and I found myself joining in with them but here’s the thing. Having sex on your period can actually be pleasurable; your sex drive heightens during your menstruation cycle and you might find yourself masturbating a lot more than you would on a regular basis. Plus did you know that orgasms are a great way of alleviating menstrual pain? So the next time you find yourself groaning at the thought of having sex on your period, stop and think about how your words can be conceived as ‘damaging’. I’m not saying you have to have sex on your period but don’t shame those who do. That’s not cool.
So How Can You Help Others Talk About Their Periods ?
- Create a hashtag like #periodtalkmatters and establish Twitter chats and campaigns centered around celebrating your period. It could be initiating a series of questions with period positive tweeters , like asking them what they like about their periods or even creating a discussion panel with experts to answer their audiences questions. Whatever your creative idea, use the power of social media to promote period positivity.
- Don’t be embarrassed to tell people that you can’t go out because your period pains are that bad. I find that people tend to look for another excuse because they feel like ‘period pain’ is not enough of a reason. Don’t be like that, if you need to cancel because of your period be honest and upfront! By showing that periods are nothing to be ashamed of you are creating an open and healthy discourse around period discussion.
- Be open about what type of ‘period control’ you use. For me my own personal preference is tampons as I have a heavy blood flow but for others they wear pads and some even use ‘cups’. Whatever you choose don’t feel like you need to follow your friends choices, go with what makes you feel the most comfortable. Above all remember that there is always a need for menstrual activism.
4. Being Period Positive Means We Can Be More Invested In Self-Care
Now self-care is a biggie. I admit I have not always been the best in investing in my health and wellbeing and that is something I am looking to change especially in light of recent events. But here’s the thing, when we are feeling like a poop emoji, why the hell are we not acknowledging that pain and doing something to make ourselves feel better? It could be watching your favourite movie or having a candle light bath, but having your period dosen’t mean you should curl up in a ball. Do things that make you happy and if you are struggling to feel grateful about your period, write a gratitude list and stick it on your wardrobe door listing all the reasons why periods are FAB. It could be anything from ‘periods are fab because they cleanse my bodies from toxins’ to periods are great because they help me achieve better orgasms. Whatever your story, praise the period creator. Because without periods we would be pretty darn f**ked.
But what can we do to create a better self-care routine during our time of the month?
- Masturbate. Yep I said it, the elephant in the room. Contrary to what people may think , one in four women in the UK masturbate each day and judging by my own sexual habits I would say that figure is pretty accurate. After all masturbation is a great stress reliever, so being on your period shouldn’t be less of a reason to wank. And yes wanking does count as self care.
- Schedule out an evening that is dedicated to ‘me-time’ and indulge in your favourite activities. Perhaps that means that you have an hour in a hot steaming bubble bath, surrounded by steaming scented candles or maybe read your favourite novel. Even a 25 minute ‘me time’ schedule can help you feel lifted during your period.
- Spend a lil’ money. It’s never a good idea to over-spend especially when you have bills to pay and rent is due. But if you have not treated yourself to something in months and have been lusting after a sweet pair of boots. Go for it. Consider it your much needed treat from your ‘period fairy’ #yourwelcome.
5. Being Ashamed Of Period Menstruation Is Outdated. Get Over It.
It saddens me that in some countries women and girls are made to feel ashamed of their periods. Look at what happened to Kiran Gandhi for free-bleeding while running the London marathon last April. She was publicly shamed with many labelling her running without a tampon as ‘being disgusting as fuck’. Get over yourself, try having a tampon wedged up your vagina while running a race and see how you feel? Yeah… exactly. So what if Gandhi wanted to run without a tampon or pad, if that is what makes her feel comfortable then so be it. And let’s not forget the public outcry at Rupi Kaur’s photo of a woman menstruating, when yet again Instagram censored the female body. Oh sorry your not allowed to wear clothing that shows your nipples, oh sorry I don’t like seeing a woman breastfeed, oh sorry seeing a woman on her period is offensive to my ‘sensitive eyes’. Why should these women be censored by social media for embracing their bodies and celebrating what they have been given? So it’s ok for Kim Kardashian to get naked with a bottle of champagne, but celebrating our periods is offensive? Oh please get over yourselves. Wake up and smell the god damn coffee.
And do you know why these women were punished for highlighting ‘periods”, because their decision to go without pads. tampons or cups only too evidently pointed out the lack of ‘menstrual education ‘ that our society, particularly those in poverty face every single month. In some countries women are sent away when their time of the month comes because to society they are ‘soiled’ and ‘dirty’, while in others many women and girls who can’t afford pads and tampons, have no choice but to free bleed. Yet society ridicules them for not having access to menstrual supplies anyway? As Ghandi stated in her interview with Dazed, about running 26 miles on her period,
‘we, as a society, have been conditioned to pretend that periods don’t exist, and been taught to define strength through silence and not by the ability to speak out. “There are situations where it is actually a medical emergency or you’re experiencing extreme discomfort, for example in school or a work place. You do not feel safe or comfortable talking about it – we have been told that this is not allowed.”
and she’s right. I grew up in a culture where I was told to ignore my mental and physical pain because like Gandhi said ‘we have been told that this is not allowed’. We are often shamed for speaking out and yet shouldn’t we raise awareness? We should count ourselves lucky that we have access to menstrual supplies, where in many countries having access to tampons or pads is not an option. So the next time you moan about having to wear a tampon remember this. It is our attitudes towards periods that shapes the opinions of those around us. The more that we spread positivity, the more likely they are to have an open and happy relationship with their own bodies.
Do the right thing be period positive.
What Are Your Thoughts? Would You Say You Are Period Positive?
*Disclaimer
Please note this is a collaborative post with Totmorganic as part of their #talkingperiods campaign but I was not compensated for this post and all thoughts are my own.
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It’s crazy, isn’t it? 50% of the population either get periods or will get them, and yet no one wants to talk about them! I’m all behind this movement!
It baffles me that periods are still seen as something taboo to talk about – they are completely natural but as per usual, something completely natural is seen as bizarre to talk about. It makes no sense to me!
I always believe if girls have periods then just tell. In my case, if I ever have girlfriend and she would say bring something then I will definitely bring sweets(chocolates, this is all I can afford) and pads. It’s the least I can do for her.
This is so empowering. And very true. Especially the part where you say “Because We Have Vaginas. Freaking Embrace It.” Haha. We should really be PERIOD POSITIVE. Girls should be taught all these things at an early age. Thanks for sharing!
Great post! Very empowering 🙂
There are SO many people afraid to talk about so called “taboo” subjects like periods. I don’t get it, either. ALL women get them, so let’s be miserable together LOL.
Crazy, isn’t it? Love this post though and well done on speaking up and out!
I don’t really have a problem talking about it now, but it was so embarrassing when I was young! I remember walking home with a friend of mine when another friend’s mom pulled over to say hello and tell us the girl started her period. We were so mortified. It really shouldn’t be that big a deal, it’s weird how we react to something completely normal.
Its true that periods are a subject that has been silenced and it shouldnt be a taboo to talk about it considering half the population get them! Unfortunately I get hormonal migraines every time my periods start and finish so I can end up in bed for five days a month in agony!
I’m on a pill which stops my periods so I’ve not had one in ages, it does worry me that still to a degree periods seem taboo yet they are something that women go through monthly naturally.
It is crazy to me that periods are still something many feel ashamed of in today’s world. We have them, they are a normal part of life and we shouldn’t be shy or embarrassed by them
I hear you! As a teenager my periods would strike whenever they fancied and went on for well over a week. They were so heavy and the cramps so bad I would pass out for the first few hours of every period which meant I missed a hell of a lot of school in my late teens. I had every test under the sun and by the time I got married I had been on the pill for years to try and regulate me. At this point I was actually having a period every 2 weeks and I was so worried I wouldn’t be able to get pregnant. (10yrs and 2 kids later that isn’t a worry anymore luckily!) My periods were so bad in between babies that after my second whilst breastfeeding I went onto Cerazette which is a mini pill containing Desogestrel because it is safe during breastfeeding and i hoped it would help sort me out. And guess what? I haven’t had a period for 3yrs. Yep, after all that bleeding for two decades my periods did not return when i stopped breastfeeding. I don’t think I’ll ever want to come off of it!!!
What a very good point, because its always seems awkward for others to talk about this matter – but in reality this is important and should be healthy and informative to be talked about. In my case, I consider ladies with regular periods lucky – because mine is irregular which also leads tp difficulty getting pregnant.
First: I LOVE this post. I’m adding it my articles you should read list that’s going up today.
OK, so anyway, growing up I definitely did not appreciate my short, light, regular, symptom-free periods nearly as much as I should have. Now, this past year (I think because of my Nexplanon) I’ve been having heavy, crampy, VERY LONG like 14-17 days as you described periods!! It is HORRIBLE. I am so sorry you’ve been dealing with it your whole life, I can’t imagine. That being said, it’s horrible because it’s uncomfortable, not because periods as a whole are horrible.
I freely change my tampons in front of my daughters and answer whatever questions they have. Weirdly, however, I’m still not comfortable doing it in front of my husband. He watched humans emerge from my vagina, and he’s definitely pulled out a tampon or two in the heat of the moment, but I just don’t like to change them in front of him under regular non-horny circumstances. Weird social conditioning.
So much truth to this! I don’t understand why people are so “ew” about something that’s good for our bodies.
I’m going to be honest. The train I think period positive isn’t so much a thung thing is because of how it literally makes us feel. When I’m on my period, I’m paranoid of bleeding through clothes, I have no energy, my mood swings are crazy, and I bloat like a whale. Yeah it’s spring cleaning my vagina, but no matter how much something might be good for me, if it makes me feel like absolute crap, I’m not going to be super happy about it. I may have just finished my period before reading this lol.
I have to agree there is a lack of education surrounding menstruation. It’s a natural process for half of the population and should be highlighted more. Great to see you are helping spread the word.
It is weird how no one wants to talk about periods like they are taboo. Almost every woman experiences them and they aren’t embarrassing. Just annoying to experience because they can be painful and uncomfortable.
I really really liked your post. Came across it completely on accident, and now so happy that I did.
I agree with you completely, but still (being 31 years old!) I sometimes feel slightly embarrassed, if I’m buying pads, and meet some colleague or friend during that moment. I think it’s brilliant that you are raising awareness about it, we all should contribute to this, so our daughters in the future at least never even understand that feeling of embarrassment.
I come from a traditional society that has put periods in the taboo category, I am like to be born to educated people who never made me feel ashamed to talk about my periods.
It’s crazy to me that people still view periods as gross and disgusting. To be fair, I absolutely HATE periods (I have a wonderful thing called PMDD and I used to get my periods every 12 days, it was a nightmare) so I got an IUD. But nobody should be ashamed of talking about their period! And, plus, talking about it means that people can share how to deal with them haha.
I had never understood why periods were so controversial. Because really… what’s bad about them. Just another way men found to keep un in check I guess. I have tried the pills and got my period all the time. I wanted to go for an implant but not sure anymore. The coil will do. My period strike whenever they want even now and I have no fear in showing when I have them coz this is just part of life
OMG everyone needs to read this post! Both men and women. The period stigma needs to stop! In my teens, I always felt so embarrassed about my period, although it is totally normal. I saw it as such a burden. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to tolerate my periods, but this post changed my entire view! Thank you for this fantastic post
It is strange that so many of the population have periods, yet they’re a bit of a taboo subject!
I stand behind this movement. I too had written a post about how talking about periods or even mentioning the word “period” was a taboo in Indian society. And it still is. I love this post.
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It wasn’t so long ago women were not allowed to show their belly while pregnant. It takes one person to stand up and say enough is enough like Rosa Parks. I also think society forget if we don’t have periods as we women it can create fertility issues.
I luv the mural you have chosen.
What a brilliant read. When I was on the mini-pill I didn’t have a period and even though I didn’t miss it I could feel that my body didn’t get cleaned out so I firmly believe that periods are good for us.
It is really odd that periods are still a taboo subject. You’re quite right, it’s important that we help our children to understand that they’re just a normal part of life.
This is a great informative post! You mafe some ver good pint here. We should be normalizing a part of life that is normal and healthy!
I completely agree with you. More than half the world’s population has them and for the majority of their lives. I believe it talking about it openly and comfortably. Recently my niece started her period and we’ve been working very hard with her to normalize it for her.
I hear ya sister! It’s 2017 and I don’t know why this is still considered taboo. I get ridiculous cramps too. PLUS awful migraines. Though thinking back I guess I was pretty lucky to have grown up in a period positive environment as you say – who knew my dad and brother were so wise before their time!!
I have twin girls and I am open about my periods with them now, they are only 8 but I want them to understand it, to know that it’s part of being a women and that it’s a good thing. I have also taught my son about them, he needs to respect them, understand them, and know they are part of life and it isn’t disgusting.
Totally empowering. It is too bad that sex, periods and wanking are taboo in most places. We are totally open in my home, and my daughter is comfortable even in telling her brothers that she’s on the rag and bitchy with a purpose. I too had horrid periods and it wasn’t until after I began trying to conceive that I found I had PCOS. Ask your GP or GYN about it.
Love that your bringing this conversation out in the open! It’s such a frustrating part of life but being able to talk about it helps
Great post! All for a bit of feminism!
I remember learning in school have certain, more tribal civilizations, would have ceremonies to commemorate the transition from childhood to adulthood. But in Westernized cultures, we just try to cover it up. Which is why, I believe, teenagers are so awkward about certain signs of puberty. It’s crazy that kids would throw your tampons.
Ok, I have a lot to say on this subject..haha…So here goes. I HATE my period. I hate the fact that I get bloated, bleed and ruin panties and sometimes clothes once a month. I hate that I cramp so bad that for the first day or so I literally ball up in a small knot with a heating pad and hate my uterus. I have used several methods of birth control JUST to keep from having a period. Sometimes it would work, sometimes it wouldn’t It seems after each birth of my girls, my periods were completely different. Ugh..I HATE my period. With that being said…I have always told who ever that I couldn’t do whatever because of my period. I didn’t make up a lie, or was ashamed of it. Hell, all women have them, so there is nothing to be ashamed of. Both of my daughters have always known what a period was from the time they could understand, because every single month I have complained about it. Thanks to that, both of my girls knew exactly what they could expect. My oldest wasn’t shocked, and even relieved when hers weren’t as bad as mine. My youngest is 12, and she started hers a couple of months ago. Again, she knew what to expect, and for the past couple of years, we’ve told her that it could happen any day, until one day it did. I have several friends who have NOT even said anything to their daughters about it. I don’t understand why! Talk to them about your period already!!
This was a great read, I read it twice before I shared with my my gal pals. It’s important to embrace our womanhood and love ourselves because of it. I’m so happy to be a woman. Once again thanks for a great post and my friends are already talking about on Facebook before I could write this comment. Awesome Sauce!!!
It’s such a hush hush topic and I don’t really even get why people are so disgusted by it – it’s a fact of life. All women get them. So you’re right, we should band together and be more open about it and make time to making it more positive!
I love this Ana, you are so freaking honest and I admire that completely. I have been having issues with irregular bleeding for the last six months, I’ve been bleeding pretty much non-stop and am currently waiting on seeing gynae this week, but I have been very open about that with friends, even the ones who don’t like to talk about periods – still!! It’s 2017, get over it!
Great post! I think it is hilarious that people find it taboo to talk about still! I’m a big fan of talking about stuff – then it loses its ‘scariness’.
There really is no need for anyone to be embarrassed at what is a natural body function. It’s interesting to hear about the positive side of having a period though, so thanks for sharing
I hate my period. I also find it so frustrating that it still seems so taboo to talk about. That’s why i love reading your blog. You tackles those topics that need to be talked about more.
I am trying to be much more open about this with my kids. I don’t want to be like my mother who said absolutely nothing. I don’t want them to have to learn about their bodies and how they work through friends.
I’m happy when I get my period. It means I’m not knocked up. Score! My birth control is working.
The only time I hate it is when I have terrible cramps and I want to eat all the things.
It is so much of a Taboo, even while buying sanitary napkins people make sure that it goes unwatched..Why the shame I ask too? It is something we have to be proud off as it makes us fertile and only we on this earth have the opportunity to give birth. Loved the way you’ve written it Ana!
Your contents are always interesting, bold, and gives me a minute to think about myself! I wish I was period positive but I hate how it gives me so many cramps and sickness. But embracing the fact that I am a woman and I get periods – is something I am not ashamed of! haha.
I love your post and I get bad cramps when I have my period. I think talking about period in a positive way is great because it shows that we have the ability to make life with our bodies . Thanks for sharing.
Doesn’t it feel good to talk about subjects like periods that were formerly taboo? It’s nice to be able to share information with other women and receive information in return, instead of just from your doctor. Thank goodness this new generation is so natural and open about discussing topics that should be absolutely enter general conversation.
Amen to this post! I think it’s awesome that you’re spreading positive vibes towards our periods. It’s something that happens every single month so why not embrace it and think of it as something good. I’m sorry about your experience with it though. I cannot imagine going through that for 2 or more weeks. I had a friend who would get her period 3 times in one month, I really felt for her.
Well I do agree with you. Many children nowadays are not taught about period and when it comes to them, they don’t know how to deal with it. I really love your article and love the way you speak out the truth. Thanks for your sharing.
I believe that in this day and age we really are a period positive society. I mean, if you compare now to say 30 years ago there have been huge leaps in communication. Anything goes these days! 🙂
This was a great post. Something that, like you said, isn’t talked about. I’m sure that this will help a lot of women!
I’ve never understood it either! Periods are natural and happen to virtually everyone so why is there a stigma still stuck around them. They are barely talked about and I know some women in their 20’s who are still awkward about buying tampons in a shop!
I wasn’t that much aware of periods, what an interesting and informational post. I know people don’t want to talk much about this subject, I think people should start taking it as general health issues instead of taking it as a taboo subject.
I never felt grossed with my own blood and my own period. I always think I am blessed to have it. It is a sign that I am capable to bear a child.
It will be horrific for me if its gone for good.
Thank you for highlighting such an important issue that we too are so passionate about!
So sorry to hear you have had such long periods but lovely to hear you embrace it so much. I would be interested to know if your iron levels get affected by bleeding so much x x
Periods are really crazy. It’s a curse and a blessing at the same time. I remember my bestfriend used to tell me that it’s really difficult if you have one. Guys like me really understand the situation especially if your girlfriend or bestfriend have one. It’s really an issue that should be discussed. Thanks for sharing your insights about it. I have learned a lot from it.
I have never really read about periods before. It is good to get this information out to help others. I learnt so much from visiting you today too Ana 🙂 I hate the visits and I can not imagine having them stay for so long 🙁
I was taught that having your period is a good thing because is a sign that you are healthy. What made me feel really weird is all the attention and questions all my relatives were asking, so embarrassing.
I guess we, women don’t have a ‘positive relationship’ with periods is simply because half of the population gets a period while the other half (men) doesn’t.
Sorry to hear you’ve had such bad experiences with periods over the years. A couple of my friends have had the same issues and no pill or birth control will make them any less heavy or long. I feel very comfortable talking about this kinda stuff with my friends and stuff but less so with people a generation older than myself but you can see that there is a movement forwards.
As always your outfit and accessories are on point and perfectly matched with the street art! I agree it is always seen as a negative thing that should not be discussed. Much like anything else about women’s bodies that aren’t for gratification purposes.
I don’t understand the stigma that’s attached to periods since it’s the reason there is life and shouldn’t that be celebrated? The lack of education even today is shocking so well done on highlighting an issue that is so important to both men and women.
I think that being able to talk about our bodily functions is so important to properly taking care of ourselves. If we can’t talk about what is happening with our bodies, how do we get help?
I’d say I’m pretty positive – Having 3 daughters means I need to be. I will educate and motivate about how they are the sign of a healthy body that is doing its job. Having said all that, I take my hat off to you for coping with such long ones.
The lack of education on this topic blows my mind. Having a daughter, I try to be as period positive as possible. Nothing to be ashamed of!
I used to have periods that lasted between 14-17 days and I ended up having to have surgery. I became so anemic that they had to build up my iron for 6 months before they could perform it. Be careful not to let that happen to you.
I believe we should be free to talk about our periods whenever we feel like it. I have no shame talking about mine, and I will teach my daughter the same.
I don’t know if I’m period negative or positive. They are a fact of life, albeit a major pain, but it also means that we are able to provide life. They are gross and uncomfortable, but I don’t think it is something to be ashamed of because again it is a biologic function and one day we won’t have them anymore. I do think that we should help our daughters and anyone younger understand that it is okay to talk about periods, to ask questions, or express their feelings no matter when.
Being a woman is a beautiful thing! Embrace the change, and don’t be ashamed! Great read. Thanks for sharing!
I cannot say I am period positive. I am having a rough time of mine at the moment and am awaiting an appointment for a potential hysterectomy
I know that I’ve been very fortunate with my menstrual cycle – it’s there, like clockwork, every month, and lasts for 3-5 days, and is relatively pain-free. It hasn’t always been like that though: I used to have a really flow when I was on the pill and when I had the implant. Got rid of all of that and now I’m fine 🙂 x
I think being able to talk about it is the biggest reason to embrace it. Your glasses look super cute, btw. =]
I grew up with a sister and a mom in the house. We scared my poor dad to death with our talk of Aunt Flo coming to visit! I have never experienced anything but the good stuff about my period. My mom even had a party for me when mine started!!
Claire has a very similar period to you. a few months without it and then an extra long one. You’re not on your own. I am a 3 day’er… sorry.. Claire hates it too! x
SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE FOOLS IN THE BACK!!!!
I always suffered with very heavy periods before I had my son – they seemed to get better after birth for some reason. But I love the idea of being period positive and that they are an indicator of health. Great post!
I’ve bookmarked this post to show to my friend as her daughter is 17 years old and is very body and period shy, but her mother is the exact same. Hopefully it will help both of them. And only from this post have I learned what a moon cup is! I’ve never heard of this before. I’m gonna have a look into it a bit more as I am so conscious how environmentally unfriendly pads are and how most tampons aren’t made with organic material. Thanks for the education!
Probably residual ideas of women being unclean during their periods. I grew up in a period hush hush household. “wrap it all up tight so nobody sees”. I have tried to be very direct and honest with my daughter and using proper terminology.
I love how you make women feel better about themselves. When I first had my period, every member of my family (from grandparents to aunts to the unknown level of consanguinity) made me feel that having a period is reason enough to keep me away from my boy playmates. They were talking about pregnancy and stuff that i could not understand back then. BTW, I was 10 years old when I got my first period. I would have loved if they told me why I should stop playing with my childhood friends, most of whom were boys. It was like having a period was shameful and should not be discussed openly. Thankfully I was the rebel kind and I talked about my period with my girl friends who were also very open about the topic. It is a natural occurrence, a body process. Just like sweating and eating. Would you be ashamed to discuss eating?
I don’t censor myself when it comes to my period at all. My period also stopped for some time.
WE should be talking about this more..heck we are in 2017!!! I love this post.
It’s funny how true this is. It is still such an embarrassment for us women, even though it is a completely natural thing!
Yup, having am active sexual life helps to ease menstrual pain. Whenever my partner is not available, I do masturbate and my dildo helps.
That way it helps to massage my inner muscles, resulting to stress free menstruation. No more painful cramps!
Love the idea of tying this to one’s self-care routine. Because you’re so right, many months you can feel downright awful. Instead of powering through “Nothing to see here,” why not acknowledge it and do something special for yourself. Because there truly isn’t much better in life than a candlelight bath! x
Being a male it definitely comes to me from a very different perspective. However, I have a daughter. And as a single parent I know I need to make the time of the month when she has her period to be as comfortable and as normal a thing as possible. So I have tried to make the experience as positive as possible by letting her know that I understand and it’s normal. That doesn’t mean that she won’t feel embarrassed but I will try to make the situation as natural as possible for her.
this is one deep read Ana. i can relate to this as i have just sisters, 5 of them and i know how these goes but the lengthy periods is something am learning of for the first time as most tomes i see is 3-5 days max. am glad you embraced yourself and got better. nice read..
Great post. I hate my periods because the pain is so bad but I am grateful for my female body because it has enabled me to produce 3 healthy children. I don’t want my daughter to grow up in fear of her body. I wish doctors would take my pain seriously 🙁
I can’t say I love getting my period and that I will ever look forward it, but I appreciate that whole area a lot more since having a child.
I’m having one the of heaviest periods of my life as I’m writing this. Period pressure is a real thing and you are not expected to “talk” about it just to get on with it. I had my first period at 12 when I was a skinny flat chested little girl. I was not prepared for it and it was “hidden” from my father. I actually grew up thinking that he didn’t know that girls and women menstruated its kinda sad really and pretty much sums up every point you just made in your excellent post. xK
I totally hate periods. My first experience was when I was in my last year of primary school when mine commenced and ever since then I’ve hated them even now in my 30’s. Mine can last for weeks, as long as 7 weeks, before. I now have the injection to help me manage them.
My mummy wishes she could show all her male colleagues this post. She suffers from Endo which gives her very painful periods and always feels embarrassed to talk about it x
I don’t see it as being such of a taboo as something that just happens so we just get on with it. I really don’t think they grant any exciting tops of conversation. Maybe I’m lucky. Mine last 3 days, no cramps, and I just get on with everything like normal!
I’ve never read a post like this before. Your words are so true and periods need to be normalized.
I agree, why do we have to be ashamed?! It’s our nature! Ok… I absolutely hate my 5 days/month period ahah… but as a girl I am”made”in this way, I personally have no problems to speak about it!
Definitely there are times mine have become so painful that I was in tears and screaming for a nurofen but length-wise I’m lucky. Still, as much as I love being a Woman, there are days I wake up with it thinking “Men are so lucky they don’t have to go through this each month!”
Ellie
Love this post Ana, you tell ’em! It’s so true. When I was little, I called my vagina my ‘foo’ or my ‘private’. Parents do seem to shy away from using the real word for it.
Girl!!! Clap back to the haters! I love your positive period post! I cannot tell you the times I had to hide pads at school in fear of someone seeing them and one day all I thought was why?! Why hide it? Why talk about it in hush hush tones?! When periods, no matter the flow, or frequency are normal for women?! Absolutely love it!
I think many women shy away from talking about this subject or feel that when they have longer ones than the “usual” or average days then something is wrong with them. I think all women should be free to talk about it.
I was also brought up to be ashamed of my periods, so much so I wouldn’t dare ask my mum to buy supplies for me. I’ve made sure I’m the exact opposite with Ellie and we discuss them and everything else related. It’s great more people are being honest and open about them and encouraging period positivity.
Hopefully now the next generation won’t be embarrassed at the check out or getting those knowing looks from the checkout ladies!
Glad you brought out that topic as i fail to understand why to feel ashamed. I remember going to buy my sanitary pads and weird and strange looks around following me. This is natural as other things.
Great post and kudos to you!!
Safarnama @ http://www.travelwithanjali.com/
I agree on the need to be period positive. I had a major medical condition that I was reluctant to talk about because periods were so “embarrassing.”
So insane how no one will talk about it! i’m in a group of mums and we’re quite open about what we go through, so maybe that’s the case! You lose any ‘dignity’ and ‘filter’ after you have a baby. Or maybe having a baby just changes it slightly haha. LOVED THIS POST! People need to talk about it more often and louder!
You’re so right, we are encouraged from a young age to try and hide our periods and not discuss them with anyone. We should be proud of the incredible job our bodies do for us.
We need to talk about periods more, it’s a natural part of life for us women! My mum was always open and honest with me so when my period finally started, I wasn’t stressed, or upset and knew exactly what I needed to do.
Your experience sounds awful. I’m not regular at all and consequently it was very hard to get pregnant. Two beautiful babies later I’m still not regular.
My daughter is coming up to the age where she’s going to be starting her periods soon so we’ve started talking about them more. It’s weird why it feels strange to talk about them.
Totally agree with you on this post and love that you are opening up this issue so more people can see and understand it. With it being 2017 already people are still afraid to talk about something normal females would experience like periods.
I can so relate to this post. I cannot believe that we have advanced so much thanks to science, but we still aren’t able to kill the stigma around periods. Once again, you have shared a post with all of us with so much of resonance that I can’t thank you enough, #periodtalkmatters for sure! PS: This is one of the best looks that I have ever seen you in, loved the styling and everything comes together perfectly!
Its true the topic is not discussed freely even now. The society needs to be more open minded and accept it gracefully.
I cannot say that I am period positive because it is hard for me to get used to the mess. I feel filthy and I spend most of the time showering. Luckily I do not have crams and my period is not that heavy but it is still a very uncomfortable experience for me.
I used to have really irregular periods that were really heavy and lengthy. I then had children and they’ve run like clockwork since. I personally like the premenstrual ‘glow’ and I’m so in sync with my body now, I can tell when I’m due without even thinking of or looking at dates!
My periods were a disaster when I was a teen. It would go missing for months only to return and not stop for two months. It was terrible.
Most doctors decided it was because I was too skinny. It kind of went into norms when I grew up and gained a bit of weight.
What a great topic! You’re so right in all of your points. I think it’s an important thing to talk more openly about!
Periods should be talked more about as its such a natural and normal thing for us women to go through. Unfortunately mine are very irregular due to having PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrom)and when I do get them they are awful.
I agree that there should definitely be less shame attached to periods and like you, i’ve had to challenge my own “gross out” instincts to face up to the fact that they are part of life and we should just get on with it. Your suffering sounds awful though, have you been put through for a diagnosis of endometriosis? I’d say you sound like a classic candidate.
Oh gosh..I can totally relate to the terrible pain and never-ending bleeding! 🙁 Have you ever asked your doctor about Endometriosis? I think it’s SO awesome how you’ve found ways to be period positive – this is definitely something I struggle with! xxx
I didn’t know having periods was actually a healthy thing – I went for a few years without having any and now seem to have them all the time. Now I can maybe view that in a more positive way!
Thank you! I love this! I’m currently 18 months or so in the midst of trying and failing to conceive my second baby so have started to scout out bits to make me feel better about getting my period *again*, and this is fabulous!! Xx
YAS. I completely absolutely whole heartedly agree with every point you make here. Every woman is different and the whole idea of umbrella problem-ing periods is just plain wrong. I come from a super religious family and there are certain practices we observe regarding periods; about not touching anything because of the energies transferred and such. It is quite outdated at this point but I follow this voluntarily because it is part of the traditions. Either way, PCOD has been a big painful part of my friends’ and my lives and more awareness and less pain is definitely needed!
I love this post. Wanking is a form of self care. I think we would be friends if we were on the same side of the pond!
I love this! It’s hilarious really but we are all so embarrassed to talk about it. WHY?! Let’s embrace it! It’s what make us amazing beings that can create a CHILD!
So true! All women go through it, so why is it so taboo? We need to have conversations about it for sure. Thanks for the encouragement! 🙂