Breaking the Silence: Menstruation Matters - It's High Time We Talk About It
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Silence Surrounding Menstruation: Inadequate Discussions Among Women Persist - taboo discussion on menstruation: Inadequate dialogue surrounding women's experiences
It's still a hush-hush subject: Menstruation. Despite its prevalence among women, it's evidently not a topic that rolls off the tongues of many, as per a Forsa survey commissioned by KKH Kaufmännische Krankenkasse. Eighty-five percent of German women aged 14 to 50 believe that the female cycle is not adequately discussed in the public sphere, thanks to deeply ingrained cultural norms and taboos surrounding the subject.[1]
The study found that almost all (91%) women think there's a shortage of information or coverage on the influence of menstruation and hormones. Vijitha Sanjivkumar, an expert from KKH, stresses the importance of understanding our bodies for one's own health, "The female cycle usually lasts 28 days and goes through different phases, each with specific health needs."
Women may alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, or abdominal pain by adjusting their sports activities or nutrition to match these phases.[2] Sanjivkumar suggests incorporating light exercises like walking, yoga, or Pilates into daily routines during menstruation for improved circulation, blood flow, and potential relief from cramps.
Shifting Perceptions on Sick Leave
A substantial majority of surveyed women (80%) understand and support taking sick leave due to menstrual symptoms. Sanjivkumar suggests tracking one's menstrual cycle over time, with 60% of respondents already doing so through documentation in a calendar or app. This practice appears more popular among younger women (aged 14-39) than their older counterparts (aged 40-50).[3]
The nationwide study surveyed 1,002 women from various age groups about "women's health" from March 4 to 14. KKH, one of Germany's most prominent health insurance providers, conducted the study.
- Menstruation
- Women's Health
- Taboo Topic
- Menstrual Health
- Menstrual Symptoms
- Policy Support
[1] While German society does not consider menstruation as an entirely taboo topic, its discussion is usually confined to women's private circles, rather than in mixed-gender conversations or casual discussions.
[2] Limited public awareness and understanding of menstrual health issues might result in a lack of appropriate health support for women dealing with menstrual dysfunctions.
[3] The lack of open discussion around menstruation can lead to stigma and misunderstandings among women, potentially discouraging them from seeking medical or social support for menstrual health issues.
[4] This reticence could also impact the healthcare services that providers offer to women dealing with menstrual-related issues.
[5] In recent years, there has been a growing effort to address similar issues related to menopause by providing more information and resources. Extending these efforts to menstrual health could potentially bridge gaps in understanding and support.
- The community policy can advocate for increased discourse on menstruation, a taboo topic that is often confined to women's private circles, to improve menstrual health awareness and support for women dealing with menstrual dysfunctions.
- Vocational training programs can include modules on health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and mental-health, focusing on the unique needs of women during their menstrual cycles, thereby fostering a holistic approach to women's health.
- Science and research can play a significant role in uncovering the intricacies of menstruation and developing effective strategies for managing menstrual symptoms, contributing to the overall well-being of women in the community.
