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According to our Wikipedia baba, menstruation is defined as "The regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina." Basically, menstruation (aka periods) is every menstruating being's involuntary monthly subscription to vaginal bleeding. Emphasis on how I said "being" and not "women". Why? let me do the honors...
Women are not the only ones who get periods. Scientists have always known that trans, enby and intersex people also menstruate, but it's only come to the light of healthcare providers and (a few) marketing managers recently.
Kenny Ethan Jones, a transgender model and activist says the following about his menstruating experience - "Having a period already causes me a lot of [gender] dysphoria, but this dysphoria becomes heightened when I have to shop for a product that is labeled as ‘women’s health’ and in most cases, is pretty and pink." He experiences a wide range of challenges with his monthly bleedings, especially when it comes to buying menstrual hygiene products. He even goes on to say that menstruation doesn't only bring him physical pain, but also takes a toll on him mentally.
This isn't a challenge faced by him alone. Many trans men and people who don't identify as women face these issues. Some of the issues include gender dysphoria (which can drive many people suicidal and many may end up with mental illnesses as well), not being able to access basic menstrual hygiene products, unwanted attention, economic vulnerability, no one to talk to or ask for help since much associate menstruation to women alone, and much more. With the burden of gender dysphoria and the individual feeling alienated from society, it is difficult for people with a uterus to visit a gynecologist as well.
All these issues can be resolved if we choose to educate ourselves and the people around us. Just because you ignore or look away, doesn't make the issue disappear. Many people have a hard time processing a reality where women aren't the only people who menstruate and it is understandable given our history, but what is not valid is still choosing to look the other way and making a whole community pay just for existing.
If there is a way we can help make their lives easy, then why not jump on the wagon? Here are a few ways you or people who have more authority can help:
Help them shop - It can be as simple as volunteering to buy tampons, pads, chocolates, etc
No, it's not just a "woman" problem - Talk about periods gender neutrally. It can make them feel seen and acknowledged. It can help them feel less lonely in their journey
Find all-gender washrooms - Campaign for all-gender washrooms where you work or study and don't forget to make it a must to provide free sanitary pads as well
Ask and learn directly - Educate yourself by asking people who are willing to help you understand. Even they understand this could be a new concept to you. Help each other out. Be more empathetic
Give people a break! - Some workplaces only offer women with bad cramps paid leave. Try to make that gender-neutral too by spreading awareness
Respect boundaries - Respect the fact that not everyone likes to talk about their periods. Even though your intentions may be to understand, don't push it. They already get enough unwanted attention when it comes to this.
These are just a few ways we can help our fellow humans. Don't hesitate to try on creative ways to make this world an even better place☺️
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