Significant taboos around menstruation have been created by our society and customs preventing women from openly discussing it. This restriction makes women feel as if something is wrong with them, and openly discussing it often leads to questions about their character.
They are compelled to conceal their periods due to judgment from others and the perception of period as dirty or impure. This situation often leaves them bearing this burden alone, feeling helpless. For many women, periods are associated with shame and embarrassment.
What is the impact of taboos on women’s growth?
Taboos have had a negative impact on women’s mental and physical well-being and has also resulted in the exclusion of women from participating in social, cultural, and daily activities. Taboos are a global issue, not limited to single culture or country.
Consuming sour foods or fruits, for example, is thought to disrupt the menstrual cycle and increase the risk of reproductive diseases in women. This is completely false, as sour fruits are rich in antioxidants and can actually help alleviate menstrual symptoms.
Menstruation is considered impure in many Indian cultures, and it is believed that everything a woman touches becomes impure. This is why, during periods, women are not permitted to enter the kitchen, perform daily chores, or even sleep inside their homes during their periods. For the same reason, some people believe that women should not take a bath during their periods because they will make the water dirty and spread disease. This leads to women compromising their menstrual hygiene and becoming more prone to bacterial or viral infection.
Exercising is also often prohibited due to prevailing myths, which prevent women from experiencing the benefits of stimulating blood flow, reducing mood swings, and alleviating cramps.
How to break Period Taboos?
Education plays a pivotal role in dispelling period taboos. By educating people about the reality of menstruation and the challenges girls face during their periods, as well as the potential risks associated with these taboos, we can begin to normalize this natural process. Understanding and destigmatizing menstruation is of utmost importance. Furthermore, it’s crucial that people confront offensive comments, derogatory jokes, and demeaning remarks about periods.
Educational advertising campaigns and informative videos can be instrumental in promoting awareness across all generations. In a religious context, extensive research and contextual understanding are essential to ensure that girls have access to prayer rooms and other facilities.
Conclusion
These taboos need to be broken in order to ensure the safety and well-being of girls and to make them feel at ease.
