Menstruation : A Social Taboo?

Written by: Prarthana Khatiwada - 24026, Grade XII

Posted on: 24 November, 2023

Introduction:

Menstruation, often referred to as a women’s “period”, is a natural biological process that occurs in females of reproductive age. It is a monthly cycle in which the body sheds the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, through vaginal bleeding. This process is controlled by hormones and plays a vital role in the female reproductive system. The menstrual cycle lasts for around 28 days. The duration of menstrual cycle depends upon an individual's reproductive system. Half of the world’s population experiences menstruation naturally, so it should be a topic free from stigma, taboo and discrimination. Unfortunately, in some societies, menstruation is still considered as a social taboo associated with misconceptions and myths. 

Discussion:

The word “Menstrual taboo” refers to the harmful practices, negative behaviors and attitude towards menstruation. Some key aspects of “Menstrual Taboo” are: 

• Cultural misconceptions: The stigma associated with menstruation has been increased by cultural myths and superstitions globally. In Nepal, menstruating women are considered to be impure, and their touch can contaminate the food, and make a healthy person sick. These thoughts promote discriminatory behaviors and develop a culture of shame. 
• Isolation and discrimination: In some cultures, menstruating women are kept apart from their families when they are menstruating. In the context of Nepal, menstruating women are not allowed to enter the kitchen, worship in the temple, sit on the sofa or enjoy with their family members. This isolation maintains the idea that menstruation is something to be hidden and ashamed of. 

 

Some of the consequences of the menstrual taboo are: 

• Physical and mental health: Isolation and lack of access to hygiene leads to health problems, infections, and many other problems. Depression and anxiety are the two major mental health effects that can result from shame around menstruation. 
• Gender inequality: Taboos around menstruation keeps gender inequality alive. It promotes the idea that women cannot fully participate in society because they are somehow dirty and impure when they menstruate. Women’s self-esteem is impacted and so are her chances of employment, education and personal growth. 

 

Some steps that must be taken to break the menstrual taboos are listed below: 

• By providing comprehensive menstrual education in school to both boys and girls can help breaking the taboos. 
• By ensuring that every individual has access to affordable and hygienic sanitary products. 
• By empowering women to stand out and advocate for their rights by sharing their experiences and difficult harmful practices during their menstrual cycle.

Final words:

It is high time for societies to drop down the misconceptions that have ruined the image of menstruation. We can move towards a world where menstruation is celebrated, not humiliated, and where everyone can experience it with respect and honor by encouraging education, direct conversation and gender equality.