As I sit down to write about my period experience, I’m reminded of the countless times I’ve felt embarrassed, ashamed, or just plain uncomfortable talking about it. But today, I want to break that silence.
The First Time Challenges I Experienced and How I Overcame Them
When I was in 5th standard, a girl in the class had her periods in front of everyone and her white uniform had turned red at that time I was very confused and shocked as to what happened to her after that incident, a program was conducted every year in our school and we were given information about that and told all the girls what it is actually. I remember getting my first period like it was yesterday. I was 14 years old, and I know what periods are but it was a bit strange to think that there would be bleeding.
My mom and even my dad also had prepared me somewhat, but I still felt scared. The pain, the bleeding, the discomfort – it was all so overwhelming. I shared everything with my parents(mom and dad), including the pain of my periods and the cramps I used to get during my periods but my grandmother was very strict and She didn’t let me talk about periods to anyone, not even my parents also She always used to shut me up and say don’t tell everyone that your periods have come. even she did not let me have dinner with my father or brother during those periods because, in old times, girls were considered very impure when they got their periods. My mind always thought it out that our society does not allow going to the temple but when it comes to doing household work during periods, this society enables everything.
The Struggle is Real
Over the years, I’ve struggled with painful cramps, heavy bleeding, and mood swings. There have been times when I’ve had to miss school or work, times when I’ve felt like I’m losing control. It’s very common to experience emotional distress during your period, including symptoms of depression. You might notice irritability, and anxiety. But I’ve also learned to cope, to find ways to manage my symptoms and take care of myself.
The period-shame struggle is real. A girl will not be able to ask her mother about menstruation when her father or brother is in the same room in Indian families In the same Indian culture, when a man buys a packet of cigarettes, it is purchased without any hesitation. Period taboo is quite widespread. Shopkeepers use black polythene bags and newspapers to wrap and sell sanitary pads.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the hardest things about having a period is the stigma surrounding it. We’re often told to hide our pads or tampons and to not talk about our periods in public. But why should we be ashamed of something that’s a natural part of life?
Empowerment through Sharing
Sharing my period experience is a way of taking back control, of breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation. It’s a way of saying, “I’m not ashamed of my body or my periods. I’m proud to be a woman, and I’m proud to share my story.”
Menstruation at Work in India
It’s high time we acknowledge this as a collective reality and work towards making our workplaces more understanding. Juggling deadlines with cramps and mood swings is no easy feat. Acknowledging the impact of menstrual symptoms helps us create workplaces that are not just supportive but also conducive to the well-being of everyone.
Not everyone’s period experience is the same. For some, it’s a minor inconvenience, while for others, it’s a monthly battle with pain and discomfort. Understanding and respecting this diversity is crucial for creating workplaces that cater to everyone’s needs.
Conclusion
My period experience is just that – mine. It’s unique, it’s personal, and it’s something that I’m still learning to navigate. But by sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to do the same. Let’s break the silence, let’s break the stigma. Let’s talk about our periods, and let’s support each other every step of the way.
Also Read: Why Women’s Empowerment is Crucial for a Better Future
By: Khushi
