Menstruation is a normal biological process that most people who were assigned female at birth go through. Because of gender stereotypes and social taboos, menstruation has been stigmatized as dirty and shameful, something that should never be discussed. This stigma creates poor quality of life for all who are faced with it. Menstruation is normal and healthy and should not be seen as gross or shameful.

 There are many words used to talk about periods. Calling menstruation things like “Aunt Flo,” “That Time of the Month” and “Code Red” only further the stigmatization of periods by making it seem like they are not socially acceptable to speak about plainly.  

The stigma around menstruation manifests in many ways, especially in politics. Periods are inherently political because of government regulation on healthcare and sanitation products. This is why it is so important to vote for politicians who fight for women’s rights, so we can get the affordable and accessible menstrual products that we need. 

There is a large lack of access to menstrual supplies not just in America, but all over the world. According to the Alliance for Period Supplies, 22 states still tax menstrual products. People should not be forced to pay extra for necessities. Safe menstruation should not be a luxury for only those who can afford it. By giving easier access to sanitation products, we create a healthier, happier society.

There are very simple actions that can be taken to end this stigmatization. Speaking about menstruation openly without code words can help remove the shame associated with it. This shame proposes a negative stigma that periods are a dirty thing that all who have them should be disgusted by and ashamed of. Taking away this shame would have a positive emotional impact on all who menstruate. Everyone needs to stand up for normalizing menstruation, whether they have the biological function or not.