In order for women to feel empowered about their health and wellness it's crucial to address issues that have long been shrouded in shame. One such topic is the menstrual cycle, a natural and integral aspect of a woman's life. Unfortunately, society's attitude towards menstruation has been marked by stigma, leading to a real suppression of this vital part of our identity. In this article, I'm exploring the importance of celebrating our cyclical nature and acknowledging our unique emotional and physical experiences, while questioning the widespread use of hormone drugs to halt menstruation and suppress ovulation.
The Ebb & Flow
Women are inherently cyclical beings, experiencing an intricate interplay of physical and emotional changes throughout our menstrual cycles. These fluctuations are not weaknesses or shortcomings but rather powerful expressions of our femininity. By embracing our cyclical nature, we can tap into a deeper understanding of ourselves, our bodies, and our emotions. Recognizing and honouring these fluctuations is crucial for our overall well-being and personal growth.
Different, Not Inferior
It is vital to recognize that the emotional and physical experiences of women during their menstrual cycles are fundamentally different from those of men. Our monthly hormonal shifts influence our mood, energy levels, and creative capacities. Rather than viewing these differences as a disadvantage, society should acknowledge and appreciate the unique strengths that arise from our cyclical nature. Our emotional intelligence, intuition, and ability to empathize are some of the remarkable qualities that stem from our inherent cyclicity. So next time you think about popping a painkiller and getting on it with it, consider that we are different to men and we don't need to suppress our nature and experience to be more productive in each moment.
Shattering the Stigma
Menstruation has long been shrouded in shame and silence, perpetuating a culture of secrecy and discomfort. This stigma often leads to a sense of embarrassment, making it difficult for women to openly discuss their experiences or seek support when it's needed. By shattering the stigma surrounding menstruation, we can create an environment that fosters empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. Open conversations, education, and destigmatization efforts are crucial steps towards empowering women and making sure young girls know that their body is a safe place and something to be honoured.
Questioning the Suppression
It's common practice and completely accepted, even embraced, that when a woman reaches out for help with her menstrual cycle she is prescribed the oral contraceptive pill (OCP), the mirena or hormone replacement therapy. And I can confidently say that no woman I've ever encountered, including myself, has ever been prescribed the OCP by a doctor who explained to them exactly what it would do to their body; that it suppresses ovulation and progesterone production. Nor have they been told what progesterone is essential for, other than fertility. Instead, we're encouraged to suppress this natural process to avoid the inconvenience or discomfort associated with a monthly cycle. We're taught to view hormonal contraceptives as a responsible step and are never taught to understand the signs from our body that indicate fertility or the signs from our body that something deeper is happening that needs addressing.
It's essential to question the societal pressure to conform to a continuous, non-cyclical mode of functioning. By suppressing menstruation, we inadvertently perpetuate the notion that our natural cycles are burdensome and inconvenient.
Honouring Our Bodies
Instead of suppressing our menstrual cycles, we should strive to honour and respect our bodies natural rhythms. Engaging in self-care practices that cater to our specific needs at different phases of the menstrual cycle can enhance our overall well-being. By understanding the unique strengths and challenges that accompany each phase, we can harness our cyclical energy to achieve personal and professional growth, while supporting others in their journeys as well.
Women's empowerment lies in embracing and celebrating our innate cyclical nature. By breaking the silence surrounding menstruation, promoting open conversations, and questioning the suppression of our menstrual cycles, we can create a world where women are valued for their unique qualities. Let us honour our bodies, our emotions, and our capacity for creation, ensuring that women's experiences are acknowledged, respected, and embraced in all aspects of life. Together, we can build a society that uplifts, empowers, and celebrates women in their entirety.
If you're having struggles with your menstrual cycle or transitioning into menopause, connect for a free 10 minute call or book the 'Balance Your Hormones' package and get the one-to-one support and guidance you deserve.