You may be able to tell by the title that this post may be uncomfortable for some people, and that’s exactly why I’m writing it. There is such a stigma around periods and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned how important it is to be okay with talking about it. It’s nothing to be ashamed of and although it can be uncomfortable, it’s actually a good and healthy thing. Due to the stigma and silence surrounding periods, there are many individuals who know very little about menstruation. For many of those who menstruate, periods are a source of shame and embarrassment. That’s where Plan International USA steps in.

Plan International USA is working towards breaking the silence and ending the stigma around periods by engaging with communities through participatory channels such as community theater, radio spots and interactive trainings. Through menstrual health programming, Plan International USA seeks to ensure that those who menstruate can confidently and comfortably manage their periods. Each day, more than 800 million people around the world have their periods, yet many face significant barriers to managing their periods safely and easily.

Periods can be uncomfortable and messy, but they are normal. For some people, they can be an absolute nightmare – and can put life on hold entirely. There are people who:

• Can’t afford the period products they need – known as period poverty
• Don’t have access to private bathrooms or safe ways to dispose of products
• Don’t understand what they’re going through and how to best manage their periods
• Face discrimination or prejudice because of period stigma

Although I have never faced these challenges, I am familiar with periods and how they can interfere with life completely. My entire life I have struggled with intense cramping during my period to the point where I would have to miss school, events and social gatherings. It became so painful at times that I could barely stand. I used to feel so embarrassed if I would get it at school or while I was around my friends. How could I tell them I didn’t feel well without telling them it was my period? I wish I could go back and tell my younger self to not be so ashamed. I can’t imagine going through that pain without medicine or access to restrooms.

After years of learning and growing, I have lost the shame and embarrassment and I don’t let my period keep me down. I utilize the resources around me and communicate to others how I’m feeling if I need to and I feel confident and happy. If you’re reading this and have ever felt this way, I hope that you take steps to release any sort of negative feelings and remember how many other people around the world are going through the same thing as you. We can do this!

Plan International USA is working to make sure that people who menstruate can confidently and comfortably manage their periods with the knowledge and supplies that they need. They want to protect girls and women from period stigmas and taboos, and I do too! It’s normal, PERIOD.

So, what can you do to help? Be a changemaker! Start conversation in your community by starting a fundraiser. Tell your family and friends and get the word out. It’s on us to create positive change!

#ItsNormalPeriod