My Fellowship project revolves around education and youth development. I work with the young people on aspects of digital literacy and hold conversations about gender, sexuality and menstruation, topics that are often considered taboo in our society. My journey of holding spaces to talk about menstruation started a year ago when I was working with Goonj under the initiative of Not Just a Piece of Cloth, which works towards menstrual health management. I traveled to rural and tribal pockets of the country and held open discussions about it with both men and women at the same time. I am fortunate enough to keep doing the same as an AIF Fellow, but this time in urban government schools. This blog unfolds aspects of the role of men in menstruation, written based on the understanding and knowledge that I have gained so far.
Lack of knowledge about periods can perpetuate the age-old stigmas. Boys making fun of girls who are on their periods in school can seriously affect one’s mental health, which can also result in trauma and the discontinuation of education. It is high time that we start treating boys and girls equally and start talking about bodily changes that are completely natural. Educating boys and girls about these bodily changes can help in bursting the myths and taboos around menstruation, clearing misconceptions, and instilling an understanding that there is nothing to be ashamed of or made fun of. This can be achieved in a very effective manner if a male teacher and a female teacher both collaboratively conduct a class on this, which in itself is an eye opener for the students and sets an example in front of them.
To create a gender-inclusive space where all genders are treated equally and provided care and support when needed, it cannot be achieved without the participation of boys and men. Just like a woman who is a daughter, sister, mother, and friend, a man also plays various roles in his life as a son, brother, father, and friend. As a son, brother, father, and, most importantly, as a human, it is important for a man to know about periods to be a good ally. Men can advocate for a period-positive environment and ensure that there’s a safe space created for menstruators. In a patriarchal society like India, where menstruation is stigmatized to its core, it becomes of utmost importance that men start talking about periods and deconstruct the taboos and stigmas that exist around them. Buying sanitary pads from the medical shop, talking about periods with their wife, daughter, colleague, or peer, and ensuring that the right kind of support is provided to them is the bare minimum that they can do. With this, it is also important to know when to speak, and whenever you speak, it should not be in a condescending manner.
Most importantly, men can educate their fellow men and talk about how this is a normal biological process and that it should not be tabooed otherwise. Menstruation is a natural bodily function; embracing it without stigma or embarrassment promotes gender equality and better overall well-being for everyone involved.
In conclusion, men can be invaluable allies in the realm of menstruation. By providing support, understanding, and empathy, they help destigmatize and normalize this natural process. Acknowledging and embracing menstruation without shame or prejudice fosters a more equal and compassionate society. Men’s active involvement in menstrual matters contributes to the well-being and comfort of individuals experiencing it, fostering healthier relationships and promoting gender equality. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world for everyone.
