Many women consider menstruation a topic shrouded in secrecy or considered inappropriate to discuss openly. - Many females perceive menstruation as a topic shrouded in taboo.
Women Worldwide View Menstruation as a Hidden Issue
Menstruation continues to be a largely concealed topic for many women. In a recent survey conducted by Forsa, 85% of women perceived menstruation as a subject that is not openly discussed in public. What's more, 91% of the respondents voiced concerns about a lack of knowledge or reporting on the effects of menstruation and hormones on women's health.
Several women are actively involved in addressing the topic: 60% of surveyed women tally and document their menstrual cycles, with a significantly higher proportion of younger women (ages 14-29) doing so, at roughly two-thirds. The market research institute Forsa interviewed 1,002 women between the ages of 14 and 50 for this study, commissioned by KKH Kaufmännische Krankenkasse.
Recent years have seen endeavors in sports to eradicate the taboo, with athletes speaking openly about their periods in interviews and sharing insights on their performance. The German Football Association also made headlines in 2023 with the slogan "Let's talk Periods."
Global initiatives and efforts, too, are working tirelessly to normalize menstruation and expand awareness of its impact on women's health. Noteworthy campaigns include Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD), which aims to promote menstrual health, hygiene, and dignity for girls and women worldwide, as well as collaborations, webinars, and online campaigns that focus on menstrual health equity.
While these efforts are underway, organizations and governments remain committed to dismantling the stigma surrounding menstruation through education and the promotion of menstrual health. Access to essential resources, like clean water and hygienic products, and policy changes that support menstrual hygiene are being pursued, particularly in low-resource settings. These initiatives work together to reduce the stigma, improve access to menstrual products, and deepen understanding of menstruation's impact on women's health.
- The community policy of KKH Kaufmännische Krankenkasse, as seen in their commissioned study on menstruation, emphasizes the importance of understanding its impact on women's health and wellness.
- In line with global initiatives, various employment policies should incorporate policies that ensure a sexually healthy and inclusive work environment, fostering open discussions about women's health and well-being, including menstruation and its effects.
