Most of us didn’t grow up in a period-positive environment. And sadly, that hasn’t changed much. Studies show that even today, the menstrual education given to girls and boys is just awkward school sessions and confusing half-truths. Period talk is rarely ever been open, honest, or helpful, which is why menstruation is surrounded by shame and taboo. Research shows that this belief stems from religious stories or old myths that portray periods as a shameful punishment or a god’s curse on women.
When you’re told (directly or indirectly) that your period is something ‘dirty’ or ‘shameful,’ it sticks with you. It shapes how you feel about your body, and even how confidently you move through life as a woman. That’s why building a period-positive environment is so important. It helps create a space where girls feel safe, supported, and heard. In this blog, we’ll discuss exactly how period positivity and education are cornerstones for female empowerment.
What makes a period-positive environment and education so important?
Even though periods are a natural part of life, nearly 42% of women experience period shaming. Think about it – how many times have you been told you can’t go to the mosque or temple while on your period? Or maybe you’ve been asked to sit out of sports, or not step into the kitchen at home. This mindset is exactly what needs to change, and that’s where creating a period-positive environment and menstrual education come in. Here’s how they can make a huge difference:
Girls feel better, physically and mentally
Most of us have, at some point, hesitated to ask for a pad out loud or felt weird bringing up period pain with someone, even a doctor. Studies show that over 60% of girls with intense period pain just ‘tolerate’ it quietly. Only about 1.6% actually end up seeing a doctor for it. Why? Because we’re made to feel that discussing periods is embarrassing.
But not talking openly about periods or vaginal health can lead to serious health issues. Research shows that a lack of menstrual hygiene education increases the chances of reproductive and urinary tract infections. And it’s not just about physical health. Period shame can really mess with your mental health, too. Studies suggest it can cause stress, anxiety, and even depression. So yeah, period positivity isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary. It gives you the knowledge and confidence to take better care of yourself.
Girls don’t feel like avoiding or quitting school
Remember avoiding classes because you were scared of a stain or didn’t have a pad when you got your period in school? You’re not alone. Research shows that more than 40% of girls miss school due to their period. And when this happens too often, it can even lead to dropping out or, in some cases, early marriage.
A survey found that 78% of teens actually want menstrual health to be part of their school curriculum, and we don’t blame them. Because periods aren’t the problem. It’s the lack of Menstrual education in schools (more on that here). When period talk becomes normal and part of actual school learning, girls feel more confident showing up, not just in class but also in co-curriculars. It’s a small change with a huge impact. It can allow girls to stay in school, build independence, and take charge of their future.
Girls feel more socially accepted and included
Many of us grew up checking for stains every five minutes. Why? Because what if a boy or a random stranger sees it? Periods were never something you were supposed to be chill with.
But when you grow up in a space where periods are treated as normal (like they should be), you don’t carry a sense of shame. And when boys are included in this conversation, it stops being just a “girl thing.” The teasing, the awkward looks, and the embarrassing moments go away. When everyone understands what’s happening, there’s more respect and less judgment. You start to feel seen, included and not singled out.
Girls are able to freely enjoy sports
How many times have you heard “Don’t run, you’re on your period” or “You’ll make it worse if you play outside”? Well, this narrative is still going strong in many homes and schools. But here’s the thing – science says otherwise. Research shows that your period doesn’t mess with your strength or performance. In fact, studies have found that aerobic exercise can actually ease cramps and help with PMS symptoms.
Sure, not every day of your cycle will feel the same. Some days, you might feel like sweating it out and on others, taking it easy with light stretches or a quick run. It is completely okay. What matters is listening to your body and doing what makes you feel better. No matter what anyone says!
Read more about sports during your period here.
So, what’s really getting in the way of period positivity?
We’ve come a long way in how we talk about our bodies and female empowerment, but when it comes to periods, there’s still a lot of work to be done. And it’s not just one thing stopping us. It’s a mix of socio-cultural and often physical barriers:
Nobody talks about it enough
Even now, period talk is either whispered or avoided altogether. The lack of open conversations about periods is the biggest barrier we face. It makes periods feel like something to be embarrassed about, and not a healthy part of life. But when we talk about it, openly, clearly, and without shame, everything changes. Whether it’s in schools, homes, or offices, and whether it’s with girls or boys, the more we talk about periods like a normal body function they are, the less taboo they become.
Schools don’t always teach what actually matters
Sure, we’ve all had that one chapter in biology about the reproductive system with diagrams, technical terms, and maybe a few awkward giggles in class. But that’s not Menstrual education. A lot of girls get their first period without any knowledge of how to manage it or what to expect next. That’s why there should be curricula offering complete menstrual training for every girl in every school. Just as reading starts with ABCs, womanhood should start with proper period education.
Compromises on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
Ever tried managing your period without a clean toilet, a dustbin, or any privacy? It’s frustrating, uncomfortable, and simply unfair. Without proper Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in schools and offices, managing periods becomes not only stressful but unsafe. This is why many women end up skipping school or work. On the flip side, when schools and offices are equipped with clean, private toilets stocked with pads and proper disposal bins, women feel supported and ready to manage their needs with dignity.
People often don’t know how to be supportive
Teachers might avoid the topic or say the wrong thing, friends might make uncomfortable jokes, and colleagues may act awkward. This lack of understanding creates a big gap in period positivity, making menstruating individuals feel isolated. But imagine if everyone, be it at school, or work, or literally anywhere, knew how to respond with empathy and respect. Educating everyone on how to be supportive and inclusive would not only make periods less stigmatised but also create a culture where women feel empowered.
Final Takeaway
When girls have the right information, support, and space to manage their periods without fear or shame, everything changes. They show up at school, in life, and for themselves. A small step towards a period-positive environment today creates a period-positive generation tomorrow.
Menstrual education and positivity are about dignity, empowerment and equality. Let’s keep the conversation going and build a world where no girl is held back by her period. Period.
