Young Women's Wellness

Why it is important to remove the stigma around menstruation and women’s health?

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First, what is “stigma”?

 

        “Stigma” is when people have unfair or negative attitudes about something. Stigma also means being embarrassed to talk about something, like when someone is not treated fairly because of who they are or something about them, such as appearance or background. For example, if someone has an illness, people may treat that person unfairly just because of their illness.

 

What does stigma have to do with menstruation and women’s health?

 

        Menstruation (when women and girls have their period) and other health problems are important, but sometimes people find it hard to talk about them. Research has shown this is because of stereotypes and discrimination, and sometimes people feel embarrassed about getting healthcare. Because of this, many women and girls don’t get the care they need. Women and girls with conditions that haven’t been diagnosed or treated aren’t able to live their lives to the fullest.

 

        For example, endometriosis is a common condition, but it still takes a really long time (7 to 10) years to get diagnosed. This is partly because of stigma. People may feel ashamed or embarrassed about the pain, thinking it’s “normal” pain for women, even though it isn’t.

 

How can we end the stigma?

 

        One of the easiest ways to end the stigma is to simply talk about whatever has stigma. If we talk about women’s health and menstruation more openly, others will feel more comfortable talking about it too. We can also create a safe space where everyone can feel comfortable and supported. When people discuss these things openly, women and girls can get the healthcare they need without feeling ashamed or embarrassed and live healthy, happy lives.

 

Difficult Words:

 

Diagnose: Pronounced: “dai-ugh-KNOWS.” Definition: Identifying what a disease is based on symptoms.

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Endometriosis: Pronounced “En-do-ME-TREE-o-sis.” Definition: A disease commonly found in women and girls of reproductive age. Learn More

 

Stigma: Pronounced: “STIG-muh.” Definition: when people have unfair or negative attitudes about something or are embarrassed to talk about something.

 

Stereotype: Pronounced: “STEH-ree-oh-type.” Definition: A common, oversimplified belief about a large group of people.