As I approach my 50s, I find myself preparing to pass down the knowledge of menstruation to my tween daughter. I hope to gift her not just the practicalities of managing her period, but also a positive perspective about this natural process.
Despite the cultural shifts that have made menstruation a less taboo topic, many women still harbor negative feelings about their cycles. Historically, menstruation has been viewed with disdain, and unfortunately, some men still perpetuate myths, believing women are somehow less capable due to their hormonal fluctuations. However, I want my daughter to see her body as a source of strength and empowerment.
Four Positive Aspects of Menstruation
Here are four positive aspects of menstruation that I plan to share with her as she matures:
- Sisterhood and Connection: Menstruation creates a unique bond among women. I remember my college roommates and I joking about syncing our cycles shortly after we met. In every workplace, I’ve witnessed women helping each other with period-related needs, whether it’s borrowing tampons or sharing pain relief. This shared experience fosters a sense of camaraderie that transcends age and background, reminding us that we are part of a larger sisterhood.
- A Convenient Alibi: Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes, we need a valid excuse to step away from obligations. During my high school years, we cleverly used our periods as a way to skip swimming class, and our male gym teacher would record a “P” in the gradebook without question. In the same vein, mentioning cramps can provide a discreet way to exit social situations or awkward encounters, garnering sympathy from women and avoiding scrutiny from men.
- A Reminder of Femininity: While it may seem odd, being on your period can serve as a reminder of your sexuality. There’s something intriguing about navigating daily life while experiencing this biological process. It can even add an unexpected allure to intimate relationships, should you choose to maintain an active sex life during your period. Many partners find it to be a novel experience, and it can be a great way to embrace your body’s natural rhythms.
- The Power of Creation: Each menstruation signifies the potential for new life, as the shedding of the uterine lining indicates the absence of fertilization. While many of us may not wish for pregnancy every month, the very fact that we hold the potential to create life is both magical and empowering.
As my daughter encounters various societal messages that may frame menstruation negatively, I want to counteract this by cultivating a positive self-image. I will openly discuss the challenges periods can bring, but I will also highlight their advantages. My goal is for her to view menstruation as a natural feature of being female, not a flaw.
In addition to providing her with this perspective, I want to encourage her to explore resources that promote wellness, such as those found at Intracervical Insemination. This site offers great insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle on a budget, which can be beneficial as she navigates her teenage years. For those considering pregnancy options, the NHS provides excellent information on IVF and home insemination, which could be helpful later in life.
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In summary, I want my daughter to embrace her menstrual cycle as a source of strength rather than a burden. By focusing on the positives, I hope she will grow to appreciate this natural aspect of womanhood.