Period pain isn’t taken seriously enough. Here’s why that’s a problem.

The other day, my friend told her boss she had a migraine so she could get the day off. In reality, she was menstruating.

She’s not the first person to need a day off because of period pain, nor is she the first to make up an excuse to get it. 

This highlights 3 very important topics: stigmatization, minimization, and normalization. 

1. The Stigmatization of Period Pain

Periods are still stigmatized, and many don’t feel comfortable telling their superiors the truth about why they need time off. 

Sure, it’s vulnerable information to share and no one’s business. But for something as common and natural as menstruation, we rarely call it what it is!

The shame surrounding periods needs to be challenged. 

2. The Minimization of Period Pain 

People lie about their ailments because they’re afraid they’ll need to come to work regardless. 

Period pain exists on a huge spectrum. Some menstruators never get cramps, while some experience debilitating cramps in their abdomen, lower back and legs. 

Sometimes, periods also cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headaches, and fainting. Severe periods like these are known as Dysmenorrhea. 

Imagine experiencing that and being told by a light-periods-only menstruator – or worse, by someone who doesn't menstruate at all – that ‘periods aren’t that bad,’ or that you should just take an ibuprofen and get on with your day. 

It’s never acceptable to downplay or invalidate someone else’s period pain – but it happens, often. 

3. The Normalization of Period Pain

Any period that prevents you from functioning in your daily life is not ‘normal.’

Severe period pain is estimated to affect more than 50% of people who menstruate, globally. Half of the menstruators in the world might read this and think ‘yeah, that’s normal.’

But is it? And does it have to be this way?  

Many don’t seek medical care for their severe period pain, and when they do, they’re often dismissed. Ideally, people with dysmenorrhea could access treatment without hesitation and their doctors would respond with compassion and action every time.

Talking openly about periods is the first step to making that happen. Start today by booking a free education session or joining our menstrual movement!