We’re living in the 21st century, an era of progress, space travel, AI, and global conversation. Yet one of the most natural and vital biological processes in a woman’s body is still considered taboo. Yes, I’m talking about periods.
Even today, many girls and women feel uncomfortable simply stating that they are on their period. Saying something as simple as, “I can’t join swimming/dance/office today because I’m on my period,” is still met with awkward silence, side-eyes, or embarrassment especially from men. Why?
A Legacy of Stigma
Historically, menstruating women were considered “impure.” They were not allowed to enter the kitchen, touch food, visit the room where temple is situated or even sleep on regular beds. Special bedsheets were used, and often they were isolated from the rest of the family during those days.
But let’s be honest, a lot of those practices were never really about hygiene or rest. They were about control and misinformation.
Now, as times have changed, the rules around periods have also “evolved” but only in ways that suit societal convenience. For example, in many households today:
- Women on their period still can’t enter the room where temple is there.
- But they are expected to cook, clean, host guests, or do Diwali cleaning.
- Maids and domestic workers aren’t given leave during their periods plus they have to clean the entire house even the room with the temple.
So the question is if it’s truly about religious purity or rest, then why the double standard?
Let’s Talk About It Openly
I recently spoke with a few women who still face the same old “untouchability” treatment during their periods. When I heard their experiences, I simply said, “At least you got 5 days off from housework treat it as a mini vacation!” 😉
But here’s the serious part: when I was discussing this topic with my friends, few men and women who were standing nearby were starting at me as if I had asked for a loan from them! Why? Why does the word “period” still make people uncomfortable?
My answer is simple: if you’re not comfortable with the topic, please feel free to move away. But don’t expect us to silence ourselves in public or private spaces. This is not a dirty secret. It’s not something shameful. It’s a natural, biological, and God-given part of being a woman. It allows us to bring life into the world. It keeps our bodies healthy.
So why the shame? Why the silence?
Yes, a few of us are lucky to have understanding parents or supportive environments. But many women are still fighting for dignity during a time when their bodies need care, rest, and support, not judgment.
It’s time we normalize talking about periods in schools, homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Whether it’s providing period leave, making sanitary products accessible, or just being okay with the topic, change starts with conversation.
So to everyone reading this:
If you’re a woman, don’t feel embarrassed.
If you’re a man, listen, learn, and support.
If you’re a parent, educate your children (sons and daughters).
If you’re part of a workplace, create space for empathy.
Let’s stop whispering the word “period” and start speaking openly because there’s nothing dirty or shameful about it.
And never forget: talking about periods isn’t bold, brave, or radical. It’s normal. And it’s high time we start treating it that way.
Leave a Reply