"The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts"

The Many Faces of Menstrual Bullying

Menstrual bullying isn’t always a loud, in-your-face affair. It can be as subtle as a knowing glance or a whispered joke, but the impact can be just as damaging. Here are some ways it can manifest:

• Verbal barbs: Crude jokes or even well-meaning but insensitive comments like “Moody much?” can chip away at your confidence.
• Cyberbullying: The rise of social media has opened a new front for bullies. They might post embarrassing comments about your period online or spread rumors through messaging apps.
• Physical sabotage: In extreme cases, bullies might damage your belongings or even deliberately cause a leak.

Remember, even seemingly harmless teasing can be hurtful, mainly when targeted and persistent. The constant fear of leaks or ridicule can make you anxious and affect your participation in school life.

Recognizing the Signs and Reclaiming Your Power

So, how do you know if you’re being targeted by menstrual bullying? Here are some red flags:

• You’re constantly worried about leaks or negative reactions at school.
• You avoid specific activities or places due to fear of embarrassment.
• You find yourself skipping school more often than usual.
• You experience a drop in self-esteem or confidence.

Ignoring these signs won’t make them disappear. Here’s what you can do:

• Talk to someone you trust: A parent, teacher, counselor, or a supportive friend. Sharing your experience can be a weight off your shoulders, and they can help you address the situation.
• Document the bullying: Keep screenshots to collect evidence if it’s happening online. Note the date, time, and location if it’s in person. This can be crucial if you must report the bullying to a school official.
• Stand Up for Yourself: If you feel comfortable, you can confront the bully directly. However, prioritize your safety and avoid escalating the situation. A firm but simple statement like “I don’t appreciate your comments” can be enough to deter them.
• Squad Goals: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends who celebrate you. Having people who understand and respect you can make a world of difference. Bonus points if they’re willing to be your period emergency hotline—for discreet pad hand-offs or pep talks in the bathroom stall.

• Be a Period Positive Advocate: Once you’ve conquered menstrual bullying, you can become a beacon of positivity for others. Here are some ideas:
• Start a Period Positive Club: Raise awareness about periods in a fun and informative way. Organize workshops and movie nights with period-positive films, or create informational pamphlets to distribute at school.
• Organize talks or workshops: Share your story and empower others to embrace their periods. This could be done within your school club, a local community center, or online platforms.
• Advocate for period-friendly facilities: Lobby for well-stocked bathrooms with accessible hygiene products at your school. You can approach the student council or school administration or even start a petition to get the ball rolling.

Remember, you are not just conquering menstrual bullying; you’re chipping away at societal stigma one period at a time. You’ve got this, girl!

Stories of Inspiration

Hearing stories from others who have overcome menstrual bullying in high school can be incredibly inspiring and motivating. For instance, a friend of mine started a blog to share her experiences and tips on managing periods in school. Her blog quickly gained a following, and she used her platform to advocate for better menstrual health education and support systems in schools.

Another friend organized a school-wide “Period Positivity” week, where we held workshops, discussions, and fundraising events to provide menstrual products to those in need. The initiative raised awareness and fostered a sense of community and solidarity among students.

Embracing Your Journey

Every person’s experience with menstruation and bullying is unique, but by sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create a more positive and empowering environment. Remember, your journey is your own; seeking help and support is okay.

From Shame to Strength

 

Menstrual bullying can be a daunting experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. By recognizing the signs, speaking up for yourself, and building your confidence, you can overcome it and become a powerful advocate for change. Embrace your period as a natural part of life, and don’t let anyone dim your shine. Remember, you are strong, capable, and worthy of respect.

I am a co-founder of the Utpat Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 charity created to promote wellness and raise awareness to protect young girls and women from menstrual bullying. Our mission is to normalize conversations around periods through educational workshops and impactful social media campaigns. We advocate for inclusive school policies that ensure access to menstrual products and proper facilities. Together, we can create a safe and empowered environment where young girls and women can embrace their menstrual health without shame. For more information, explore our initiatives at utpatfoundation.org.