Menstruation: Breaking the Silence
During my middle school years, I was taught to keep quiet about my menstrual cycle. Whether at home or school, we would whisper or use code words to discuss our problems. Dealing with the discomfort of painful cramps and mood swings while trying to hide it all was burdensome. Instead of receiving comfort during a time when I needed it most, I was isolated to one room of my house. Initially, I felt ashamed and guilty when I got my first period. The changes happening in my body made me feel insecure. Society's restrictions made me feel impure during those days. I used to pray for my periods to go away, but now I understand their importance. Fortunately, I was raised in a family that encouraged me to have my own opinions and question things. We had open discussions about various topics, but menstruation was different. I was told not to discuss it openly outside the family. While my mother was supportive and my father understood, others did not. However, how long could a free-spirited ...