While we here at Hey Sister! are lucky and get to talk about our periods, our cycle, our pain, and our peri-menopausal symptoms with our male colleagues—and they get it, they empathise, and they understand when Jade joins our Monday meeting from bed as she is feeling a little sluggish—I do remember a time, not too long ago when I was talking to my work BFF about our cycles when a FEMALE, yes, a female boss said, "Ewww, can you not talk about that? It's too much information and gross."
So this brings me to this week's blog: How do we deal with people who don't get it, who don't understand how important it is to feel seen and heard when it comes to your period?
Menstruation: Why Don’t They Get It?
In a world where we can openly discuss almost anything, it’s baffling that menstruation remains a taboo topic. Whether it’s a co-worker who recoils at the mention of “Aunt Flo” or a partner who thinks PMS is just an excuse to be moody, dealing with people who don’t get it can be frustrating and isolating.
Breaking the Ice: Talking Periods with the Uninitiated
Scenario 1: The Office Eyeroll
You’re in a meeting, casually discussing with a colleague about the frustration of an impending period. "visit from the Red Fairy" "Oh, so is mine!" you both declare with a knowing nod. Suddenly, someone rolls their eyes at the mention of menstrual cycles, and there's a noticeable shift in the room. What do you do?
Witty Comeback: “Oh, don’t worry—our cycles aren’t catching, but our productivity might be!”
Empowerment Tip: Normalise the conversation by linking it to productivity and wellness. Explain how understanding menstrual cycles can actually lead to a more efficient workflow and a happier team.
GAHHHH! Are You Kidding Me? Navigating Clueless Partners at Home
Scenario 2: The “It’s All in Your Head” Comment
After a long day, you express your need for some extra TLC, only to hear, “Is it really that bad?”
Witty Comeback: “Only if you consider shedding the lining of your uterus, bleeding, and dealing with cramps every month ‘bad.’”
Empowerment Tip: Share resources, such as articles or documentaries, that explain the physical and emotional aspects of menstruation. Sometimes, seeing is believing, and education is key to empathy.
Friends and Family: The Awkward Silence
Scenario 3: The Family Gathering
You’re at a family dinner, and someone asks why you’re so quiet and not as engaging as usual. You mention you have bad period cramps, and suddenly everyone’s fascinated by their mashed potatoes.
Witty Comeback: “I’d explain the miracle of my uterus, but I don’t want to overshadow the miracle of Aunt Joan’s casserole.”
Empowerment Tip: Use humour and facts to diffuse discomfort. Explain that menstruation is a natural and important part of life, deserving of respect and understanding.
Closing the Gap: How We Move Forward
Creating a world where everyone “gets it” won’t happen overnight, but each conversation moves us closer to breaking down barriers and ending stigma. By confidently discussing our cycles and educating those around us, we empower ourselves and others to embrace menstruation as a normal, healthy part of life.
Join the Conversation
We’d love to hear your experiences and strategies for dealing with those who just don’t get it.
Together, we can create a more understanding and supportive world for everyone.
