How a Real Story About Period Positivity Can Empower Families and Communities?
Menstruation is a natural process, but for too long, it has been surrounded by shame, secrecy, and discomfort. This stigma can lead to confusion, anxiety, and even poor health outcomes. But what if we could change that? What if we could raise children in an environment where menstruation is openly discussed, embraced, and celebrated? In this article, we’ll explore a real-life story of how one American mother navigated the subject of menstruation with her daughter and how she now helps raise awareness around period positivity for the next generation. Along the way, we’ll discuss practical ways parents can foster period positivity and support their kids in understanding menstrual health in a respectful and empowering way.
A True Story: Breaking the Silence Around Menstruation
Let’s start with the story of Sarah, a mother from Minnesota. When Sarah was a teenager, she was ashamed of her period. Menstruation was something discussed in hushed tones—if at all. Her mom rarely spoke about it, and when she did, it was often uncomfortable. She only learned about periods in school, where the teacher spoke about it briefly and detachedly, but there was little context or support for navigating this new reality.
As Sarah grew older and became a mother, she vowed to change the narrative around menstruation for her daughter, Emily. She understood how impactful it was to feel like you were "alone" in your menstrual journey. Emily’s first period came when she was 12. Sarah was determined to be open, calm, and supportive.
Rather than letting Emily feel awkward or embarrassed, Sarah made the conversation about menstruation feel normal and natural. She explained what menstruation was in simple terms, emphasized that it was a part of growing up, and that it wasn’t something to hide or feel ashamed of. She even showed Emily the pads she used, pointing out how important it was to be comfortable during her period. Sarah made sure to be empathetic, and it wasn’t just about the facts—it was about making her daughter feel heard, respected, and empowered.
As Emily entered her teen years, Sarah became an advocate for period positivity. She actively volunteered to participate in menstruation education at Emily's school. She wanted to be part of the movement that normalized periods, breaking down the shame that often surrounds menstruation, and teaching kids that it was okay to talk openly about it.
Now, as Emily has grown into a young adult and is preparing to become a mother herself, Sarah continues to pass on her wisdom. She talks to Emily openly about menstruation and even helps her shop for feminine hygiene products. “When I have a daughter of my own,” Emily says, “I’ll do the same thing Mom did for me. I’ll make sure she knows her body is powerful and that periods are nothing to hide or be ashamed of.”
This story is just one example of how breaking the silence around menstruation can change the course of how we understand and manage our periods. It starts with education, communication, and advocacy. Let’s dive into how other parents and communities can adopt this mindset to normalize menstruation and help future generations embrace it.
How Can Parents Foster Period Positivity?
1. Speak Out the Word "Menstruation" Loudly
The first step in fostering period positivity is simple but profound—speak the word “menstruation” openly and confidently. Too often, we avoid the word or replace it with euphemisms like "that time of the month" or "Aunt Flo is visiting." By using the proper term, parents can normalize the conversation. When children hear the word "menstruation" without any shame, they begin to associate it with respect and understanding rather than embarrassment.
Sarah’s approach was to be direct, using clear language. “This is menstruation. It’s a sign that your body is growing up and capable of so many things,” she explained to Emily. This approach gave her daughter a sense of pride and agency over her own body. It is essential to model healthy language around menstruation so children feel empowered, not embarrassed.
2. Show Your Feminine Period Pads or Products
There’s no need to hide your sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups when you have children in the house. Rather than stashing products away in a secret drawer, allow your child to see you using and discussing these items in a casual way. This helps demystify menstruation. For instance, Sarah made sure that Emily knew where the period products were stored and that they were available at all times.
Even when Emily had her first period, Sarah showed her the options available—pads, tampons, and menstrual cups—and explained how each worked. This transparency and openness encouraged Emily to feel comfortable and confident when she started menstruating. Whether you're using reusable pads or disposable options, showing them without shame can make a huge difference in how your child will view menstruation when they experience it themselves.
3. Be an Advocate for Menstruation Education
Not all schools provide in-depth education about menstruation. While some do, others may only touch on the basics, and the conversation often lacks cultural sensitivity or emotional support. By becoming an advocate for menstruation education, parents can ensure that their children receive a comprehensive understanding of their bodies and menstrual health.
Sarah made it a point to talk to school administrators and offer to help with menstruation education initiatives. She also volunteered to lead discussions in the classroom, ensuring that the topic was presented in a positive and informative way. Schools are critical environments where children need to learn that menstruation is a normal and natural part of life. When parents, teachers, and communities come together, we can ensure that no child feels uncomfortable or embarrassed when it comes to their periods.
4. Normalize Menstruation as a Community Issue
Menstruation is not just a personal or private matter—it’s a community issue. By opening up the conversation about periods, parents can encourage the next generation to not only understand menstrual health but also to become advocates for others. For example, Sarah has helped start conversations with other parents about the importance of having period products available at school and in public spaces. She believes that it’s important for communities to be supportive and inclusive of people who menstruate.
Additionally, Sarah believes that businesses should play a role by offering affordable and accessible period products. “Period poverty,” the lack of access to sanitary products, remains a critical issue in many communities. Families who can afford these products may not realize the struggles others face. By discussing the issue of period poverty and supporting initiatives that provide free or low-cost sanitary pads, we can take collective action to address this public health issue.
Common Questions About Period Positivity
Q1: How can I talk to my child about menstruation?
Start by creating a comfortable, open environment where your child feels free to ask questions. Use clear and simple language, explaining what menstruation is and why it happens. Be patient and listen to their concerns.
Q2: When should I talk to my child about their first period?
It’s helpful to have this conversation before your child reaches puberty, so they are prepared when the time comes. At around 8-10 years old is a good time to start discussing menstruation.
Q3: What if my child feels embarrassed about their period?
Reassure them that menstruation is a normal, natural part of life. Normalize the topic by discussing it openly and calmly. Share your experiences and let them know that feeling embarrassed is natural, but they shouldn’t feel ashamed.
Q4: How can I support my child during their first period?
Be supportive, calm, and understanding. Provide them with the necessary products and help them understand how to use them. Be a listening ear if they need to talk about how they’re feeling physically and emotionally.
Conclusion
Period positivity begins with open communication, education, and advocacy. As parents, we have the power to change the narrative around menstruation for our children. Just like Sarah did with Emily, we can help the next generation embrace their bodies, learn about menstrual health, and break down the stigma surrounding periods. Through openness, education, and community support, we can create a world where menstruation is seen as a normal part of life, not something to be ashamed of.