As I approach my 50s, I find myself preparing to pass the menstrual baton to my tween daughter. Imagine a tampon if you will. But beyond that, I hope to bestow upon her a positive perspective about her monthly cycle.
I know this viewpoint goes against the grain. While menstruation has become less of a taboo topic, many women still express disdain for it. And men? Well, their historical attitudes toward menstruation can be downright disheartening. Some still hold outdated beliefs that a woman’s monthly hormones make her unfit for leadership roles, such as the presidency (looking at you, Donald Trump).
Since my daughter could speak, I’ve made it a point to emphasize how powerful and extraordinary her body is. Here are four positive aspects of menstruation that I intend to discuss with her as she grows:
- Female Bonding: The shared experience of menstruation creates a unique bond among women. I remember joking with my college roommates about synchronizing our cycles shortly after meeting. In every workplace, I’ve witnessed female colleagues reaching out across levels to borrow tampons or pain relievers for cramps. Whether it’s my 90-year-old great aunt or my host sister from my exchange program in Costa Rica, discussions about periods foster a sense of camaraderie and sisterhood that transcends differences.
- A Convenient Excuse: Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes we need an excuse to step away from obligations. In my high school days, we cleverly evaded swimming class by telling our male gym teacher we were on our period. No matter the timing, he always marked a red “P” in the gradebook while we enjoyed a break in the bleachers. When you need a no-questions-asked way to exit an event, a simple mention of cramps or “female issues” can do the trick. Women empathize, and men rarely question it.
- Reminder of Our Sexuality: It may sound peculiar, but think of menstruation as a recurring reminder of our sexuality. There’s a certain allure in going about daily routines while something primal is happening within. It’s like harboring a secret crush or a hidden romance. And if you feel inclined to engage in intimacy during your period, that’s perfectly fine too. Many open-minded partners find it to be an exciting twist, and there’s no need for extra lubrication—just grab an extra towel.
- Recognition of Our Superpowers: I still remember the first booklet my mom gave me along with a box of ‘beltless’ Stayfree maxi pads. Menstruation signifies the shedding of the uterine lining when an egg isn’t fertilized—implying that we have the potential for pregnancy every month. Sure, most of us don’t want that, but it’s pretty remarkable that we possess such power. It doesn’t get more magical than the ability to create life.
As my daughter navigates through various messages about her body, I want her to know that menstruation has historically been viewed negatively. Women waste far too much mental energy feeling disdain for their bodies. I aim to ensure my daughter embraces hers. While I will be honest about the challenges periods can present, I will put equal emphasis on their benefits. Hopefully, she will come to see periods as a natural feature of being female, rather than a nuisance.
For more insights on this topic, check out Modern Family Blog which offers valuable perspectives. If you’re curious about family planning, you can also explore options like the Baby Maker Home Insemination Kit or refer to WebMD’s guide for information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
This article emphasizes the positive aspects of menstruation, aiming to help young women, especially tweens, develop a healthier and more appreciative view of their bodies. By highlighting female bonding, the utility of menstrual cycles, and the power of femininity, the author seeks to counteract negative societal messages while fostering self-acceptance.