How Period Shaming Affects Health and Ways to End It

Even in today’s world, where conversations about body positivity and health equity are growing louder, periods remain one of the most stigmatized aspects of health. Menstruation is a natural and essential process for millions of people, yet the shame surrounding it can have harmful consequences for mental, physical, and social well-being.

A 2018 poll by Thinx revealed that 58% of people who menstruate feel embarrassed by their periods, and 42% have experienced period shaming, often from family members, classmates, or male peers. This shame perpetuates harmful cultural taboos, contributes to systemic inequities like period poverty, and negatively affects physical and mental health.

Here’s a closer look at the impact of period shaming and practical steps we can take to dismantle this stigma.

What Is Period Shaming?

Period shaming, also called menstrual stigma, refers to the discrimination and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. This can manifest subtly, such as treating periods as a secretive or “dirty” subject, or overtly, such as mocking someone for menstruating or dismissing their behavior as “PMS.”

For instance, it’s common for menstruators to face comments like, “Are you on your period?” during arguments or professional disagreements. Such statements trivialize their emotions and perpetuate stereotypes of irrationality.

Period stigma isn’t limited to private interactions it’s embedded in cultural norms and systems. In politics, menstruation has been used to discredit female leaders, and in some workplaces, people feel compelled to hide their periods to avoid judgment. Even commercials for menstrual products often use coded language, euphemisms, and a focus on “discreetness,” implying periods are something to hide.

These stigmas extend to people of all gender identities who menstruate, including trans men and nonbinary individuals, who often face unique challenges navigating a world that associates menstruation solely with cisgender women.

How Period Stigma Harms Health

The consequences of period shaming extend far beyond fleeting embarrassment. Stigma can shape how people experience their periods, how they access care, and their overall well-being.

1. Period Poverty

Period stigma contributes to period poverty, or the inability to access or afford menstrual products. Globally, this affects an estimated 500 million people, according to a 2022 report in Journal of Global Health Reports.

In the U.S., two-thirds of low-income menstruators can’t afford menstrual products, often forcing them to choose between buying food or tampons. This can lead to missed work, school, or social opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty.

For instance, a student who lacks access to menstrual products may skip school to avoid teasing or leaks. Falling behind academically can derail future opportunities, further entrenching inequality.

2. Mental Health Struggles

Shame and lack of access can have severe mental health consequences. People experiencing period poverty are more likely to suffer from moderate to severe depression, according to UNICEF.

An April 2023 study in BMC Women’s Health found that young menstruators in period poverty were significantly more likely to experience poor mental health. Even outside of poverty, pervasive stigma can lead to feelings of shame, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

3. Workplace Challenges

Most workplaces lack accommodations for menstruators. Many feel pressured to “power through” pain or discomfort, fearing they’ll be perceived as less reliable.

“Menstruation is often treated like a disability in our society, without providing proper accommodations,” says Kim Dela Cruz of Cross River Strategies. This stigma reinforces the idea that addressing one’s own physical needs is a sign of weakness, creating barriers to equitable treatment in professional settings.

4. Delayed Medical Care

Period stigma can lead to inadequate care for serious menstrual conditions. Diagnoses for conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often take years.

For example, it takes an average of 10 years for someone in the U.S. to receive an endometriosis diagnosis, per Yale Medicine. During this time, individuals may endure debilitating pain and life disruptions without proper treatment.

How to Fight Period Stigma

While period shaming has been entrenched in cultural norms for centuries, there are actionable steps we can take to reduce stigma and promote equity.

1. Normalize Periods

Start by shifting your own perspective. “Menstruation should be treated as a medical and bodily function not a ‘lady problem,’” says Diana Lu, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Cross River Strategies.

Avoid euphemisms like “that time of the month” or “Aunt Flo,” which can perpetuate the idea that periods are embarrassing. Speak openly about menstruation and validate the needs of others.

2. Speak Up Against Period Shaming

When you hear period-related jokes or dismissive comments, challenge them. A simple statement like, “That’s unprofessional,” or “That joke isn’t funny,” can make a big difference in shifting attitudes.

Encourage inclusive language that respects all menstruators, including nonbinary and trans individuals, and avoid stereotyping menstruation as irrational or gross.

3. Support Policy Change

Vote for and advocate policies that:

• Provide free or affordable menstrual products in public spaces like schools and workplaces.

• Include comprehensive menstrual and reproductive health education in schools.

• Support paid menstrual leave policies to accommodate those with severe symptoms.

4. Promote Accessibility

Make menstrual products accessible to everyone by donating to local organizations that provide period supplies for low-income individuals. At home, create a welcoming environment by making products visible and easily available.

5. Educate and Advocate

Learn about the intersection of menstruation, health equity, and systemic injustice. Diana Lu recommends reading Care Work: Dreaming Disability Justice by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha and following resources like The Nap Ministry for insights on self-advocacy and equity.

The Bottom Line

Period stigma is more than just an uncomfortable conversation it’s a public health issue that affects physical health, mental well-being, and social equity. By normalizing menstruation, advocating for policy changes, and fostering open conversations, we can help dismantle harmful taboos and create a culture of inclusivity and respect.

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