Disclaimer: ” ज़िन्दगी के ज़ालिम किस्से ” is the caption of my writings related to real life stories that I have faced or people close to me have actually gone through.
When we go through the menstrual cycle, it’s not that we need sympathy. We don’t invite menstrual cramps to trouble us. It’s a part of every female’s life and we are managing it too.
Every month, women have to put up with seven days of periods along with two to three days of post-menstrual cycle leading to pain in the lower back, in calf muscles and thighs, in the stomach; we get pimples and vaginal cramps, we also have to deal with vomiting, mood swings, etc.
Using a menstrual cup or sanitary pad throughout isn’t an easy task for us and it actually doesn’t matter how fit we are. Whichever brand of pads we use, it won’t be as comfortable as they seem like in advertisements. So only we can understand what we are going through.
A few months ago, I came across an article related to taking leave from work due to periods. But as usual, the piece didn’t draw any conclusion.
So let’s start with a small step. To all my Facebook friends, I want to request you to co-operate with us the way you can. It’s just following humanity with modernity.
Kindly consider the following things:-
1. Be open to the word ‘periods’ or ‘menstrual cycle. Women in your home, as well as your workplace, should feel comfortable tallking to you about these things and reaching out for help when they are on their periods.
2. If she is getting too irritated, give her time and be patient.
3. If you see patches of period blood on her dress, kindly inform her.
4. If she is physically strained, do help her in household chores or at your workplace as much as you can.
5. I was the one who told my father about my first period. And he was the one who told me everything about it. Even today, if I feel any problem related to periods, I tell him. And we are fine with it. To all the fathers and brothers or male best friends, make a woman comfortable enough to discuss her concerns with you.
6. With fast changing social and environmental factors, kids are growing up quick. As a result of this, girls at the age of 11-12 are getting periods. But they may not be aware of how to manage it. To all the parents, it’s your responsibility to teach them at least the basics of it by the age of 10 itself.
7. Though sanitary pads are widely available in India at each corner, always have two to three pads in your carry bag so that you don’t have to end up using newspapers or clothes even in an emergency. Moreover, you can also contribute to someone in need.
8. If you can use menstrual cups, go for it. I have gone through various articles from doctors and concluded that pads are not safe for long-term use due to chemicals used in them and also due to frozen blood. Though cups aren’t widely used here, in other countries, they prefer it over pads due to safety.
9. If you feel like worshipping during periods, kindly go for it. Your soul needs to be pure and periods do not make you impure.
10. Safety and cleanliness should be your priority. Eat healthy, walk healthy and live healthy.
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