Pooja Sehgal on Stereotypes on Menstruation | Menstrual Hygiene Day | Her Zindagi

Pooja Sehegal, a counselor at a senior secondary school, discusses the numerous stereotypes surrounding menstruation that turn a perfectly natural process into a challenge for women. From feeling embarrassed to purchase sanitary pads to receiving them discreetly wrapped in newspapers or black polybags, it is crucial for our society to confront these issues and work towards destigmatizing menstruation instead of treating it with shame or judgment.

Stereotypes on Menstruation

Menstruation is frequently stigmatized and treated as a taboo topic in various cultures. This perpetuates the notion that menstruation is shameful or unclean, resulting in silence, secrecy, and minimal conversations about it. Additionally, some stereotypes suggest that menstruation signifies weakness or vulnerability, while others imply that women are incapable or irrational during their menstrual cycle, undermining their contributions in personal and professional spheres. Furthermore, there is a stereotype that menstruation impedes women's involvement in activities like sports or leadership roles. These stereotypes hinder progress towards menstrual equity and reinforce harmful gender biases.