Menstruation is a natural process experienced daily by millions of people worldwide. Yet, a taboo still surrounds this topic. Many women+ feel shame, do not talk openly about it, or encounter a lack of understanding from their environment. This has consequences: a lack of knowledge, insecurity, and sometimes even health problems because complaints are not taken seriously. That is why sharing stories is so important. This is how we break the taboo together!
Experiences as a powerful tool for change
The Menstruation Stories project by Máxima MC in collaboration with University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) gives women+ a voice. On the website Talking About Health, 33 people share their menstrual experiences via video, audio, and text. What stands out? No two experiences are the same. While one person has hardly any complaints, another suffers from extreme pain, heavy blood loss, or medical conditions such as endometriosis or PCOS. By collecting and making these stories visible, it becomes clear that menstruation is not something to hide, but something that deserves attention.
One of the participants says: “I never felt that my complaints came from my menstruation. It wasn’t until I started looking on social media, about three or four years ago, that I started reading more and seeing more articles. Then I thought: hey, but what is that endometriosis? And those complaints really seem a lot like what I have.” This kind of recognition can have a huge impact. It helps women+ realize they are not alone and motivates them to stand up for themselves better, for example, by talking to others or a GP.
Breaking taboos through recognition and acknowledgment
When you read or hear a menstrual experience that you recognize, it can be a huge relief. “I’m not the only one who has this!” In addition, personal stories contribute to a broader understanding in society. Partners, colleagues, employers, and healthcare providers gain a better insight into the impact of menstruation and can therefore show more empathy and offer support.
On Menstruation Stories you can read about, for example:
- How the first period was for women+
- Whether women+ feel dirty and ashamed when they menstruate
- How trans men experience their menstruation
- How menstruation affects daily life, such as work and study.
- The experience of women+ with conditions such as endometriosis and PMDD.
By openly discussing menstruation, we make it easier to share experiences and ask questions. This way, together we ensure that menstruation is no longer a taboo, but a topic everyone can talk about without shame.
* the illustration was made by Rosanne Martens
An open conversation is the beginning
By talking openly about menstruation, we can contribute to change. Think of more understanding in the workplace, better education in schools, and improved medical care. For example, why should you have to make up an excuse to stay home if you suffer from extreme menstrual pain? Or feel uncomfortable when buying tampons or sanitary pads in the supermarket?
It all starts with sharing stories and making what has been kept silent for years discussable. On Menstruation Stories, you can not only read experiences but also share your own story. Together we ensure that menstruation is no longer a topic of shame, but something we can talk about openly and honestly. Will you join us?
In this piece, we use the term women+ to emphasize that menstruation concerns not only women but also others, such as non-binary individuals or transgender men.
