Periods and Secrecy

Written by Samantha Yeung

Periods: let’s talk about them. According to the Office on Women’s Health, “menstruation is a women’s monthly bleeding,” and is often referred to as a women’s “period” (womenshealth.gov). Most girls get their periods between the ages of eight and fifteen, but the first time menstruation may vary for every individual. There is a certain stigma about periods: they are regarded as the “time of the month” of excessive chocolate and stinging cramps. And while to many, chocolate and cramps are elements of their period, they are not the only defining characteristics. Periods can also be seen as a symbol of life and womanhood — and they are quite extraordinary.

When I got my first period, I was twelve. Thanks to the short program on puberty given to many fifth graders in California, I had a brief understanding of what my body was experiencing. Reflecting back on that time now, I realized how large my lack of knowledge was about the menstrual cycle and the process of menstruating. I did not understand why I bled — I just knew that I did, and would every month from then on and a long time forward. Also, when I first received my period, I held this mindset that I must keep it a secret at all costs. I thought that being on my period was an embarrassing thing and disgusting to others. There were times I had bled through my pad; at home when my extended family was over, at my friend’s house during her birthday celebration sleepover, and even at school, in class — and I remember all of those experiences vividly. I remember feeling the ultimate embarrassment of my entire life. I had considered myself as if I had broken the law, or worse. I held this mentality for around three years until I reached my sophomore year of high school. I convinced myself that having my period was unnatural, when in fact menstruating is arguably the most natural thing in the world.

As a sophomore in high school, I had a relatively small group of three best friends — all of them identifying as females. Their influence had taught me how periods were nothing to be ashamed of regarding my period. After exchanging period stories, concerns, and experiences with each other, I had found this new pride in getting my period. I now understand that my period is a part of my identity and I act as if I receive superpowers for a week when I get my period. My period is a reminder that I have the ability to give birth and life to another human being. Accepting, and further, being proud of getting my period has led me to having a greater appreciation for my life and health. I am choosing to share my experiences on this platform because I want to encourage young women, or women of all ages, to take pride in their special gift of having a period as well. I hope reading this article, every woman can feel special and appreciated, and realize that they are a part of a larger community of support, as well as to embrace their womanhood with love and fierceness.