We live in a society where elders too frequently dismiss the views of the younger generation, where the privileged overpower the poor, where traditional hierarchical values influence the most fundamental elements of everyday life. So it should come as no surprise that outdated traditions and practices that should have been abandoned long ago continue to haunt us. We Thais are so accustomed to the values of our cherished “sabai-sabai” philosophy that we sometimes overlook its vulnerabilities.
The Land of Smiles? More Like the Land of Compromise.
Thai women of all ages are especially vulnerable to archaic and restrictive definitions of ‘womanhood’ especially when it comes to the taboo topic of menstruation. Why must women continue suffering in secret? Why must we bow down to systemic oppression that holds us back, witnesses to a losing battle we do not fight, merely because we fear defeat? As a menstruator, a female, a 16 year-old, a patient, and a human being; I am calling for a much-needed change of perception towards menstruation. As a member of the rising generation, I feel a responsibility to speak out.
Many readers are likely familiar with the popular 2018 historical Thai drama ‘Buppesanivas’ (Love Destiny). Beneath the compelling storylines and stunning set designs, the show also offers valuable insight into the origins of the cultural stigmatization of menstruation. Today’s undermining beliefs likely derive from the traditional practice in which mee rue doo (bleeding) women were expected to confine themselves inside their rooms. Even the female lead was euphemistically described as khee mar (riding a horse). Similar tales of menstruators’ fundamental freedoms being violated echo in our world today. In countries like India or Nepal, menstruators are confined in chappaudis (menstrual huts) until they stop bleeding. Labeled ‘unclean’ they are exiled from their homes out of fear they may bring ill fortune to their families. Although thankfully we do not have chappaudis in Thailand, this does not negate the fact that the subject of menstruation remains largely ignored and unaddressed by society at large. Women are still prohibited from entering temples or participating in religious ceremonies simply because it is their ‘time of the month.’ Incarcerated, period poverty-stricken, and socioeconomically-disadvantaged females are especially vulnerable to social stigma and denied access to basic items like sanitary pads and tampons – classified as ‘cosmetic products’ and burdened with tariffs when they should be free to all.
Speaking openly about this topic (much less achieving real change) is no small task, but absolutely crucial. At the very least, we must begin somewhere.
The absence of informed dialogue and awareness regarding menstruation has affected me personally. At fifteen, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and prescribed hormone medications to ensure that my periods were regular. I am far from alone. According to a 2017 study by the Middle East Society Fertility Journal, 116 million menstruators are affected by PCOS worldwide. The British NHS defines the symptoms of PCOS as irregular periods, excess androgen (a male hormone), and polycystic ovaries. At the time, I had no idea that missing my period for six months was a serious issue, and even enjoyed not having to endure the bloating, nausea, and other myriad discomforts of menstruation. I was extremely fortunate my mother and grandmother possessed the awareness and willingness to take me to a gynecologist for treatment.
Tragically, too many women around the world are not so fortunate. A dear friend of mine lost her period for a year, but her mother refused to take her to the doctor because she mistakenly believed it was normal and ‘okay’. My friend is just one of many girls and women who did not recognize the seriousness of what they were experiencing, leaving symptoms ignored and potentially life-threatening diseases undiagnosed. These women bear no blame: they are simply obeying tradition and following in the footsteps of the generations who preceded them.
So, how can we address this problem, step-by-step? First and foremost, we need comprehensive education of both menstruators AND non-menstruators to erase engrained cultural stigmas. In a society where the open discussion of menstruation and the ‘mysterious workings’ of the female body remains frowned upon, even among women, we can begin by creating spaces for conversations that are supportive, meaningful, and enlightening. Comprehensive education is critical for menstruators to understand what is occurring with their bodies and learn to detect any abnormalities, so that treatment can be given at an early stage to prevent serious health issues. This change must be implemented at the grassroots level in schools nationwide. Parents and daughters alike should be educated about menstrual issues and given access to gynecologists whenever they need. Sons should also be taught what women experience each month so they can better support the females in their lives. Successfully bridging the information gap will not only allow menstruators to recognize signs linked to their menstrual health and openly discuss them with doctors without shame, but benefit our society as a whole.
Dear reader (menstruator or not) it is of my humble opinion that menstruation is nature’s gift to humankind to prolong our species’ legacy. As with all truly precious gifts, however, menstruation carries its own unique responsibilities, not only for the recipient but for everyone around them.
At the end of the day, we must recognize that menstruation is a blessing not a burden, and do everything within our collective power to ensure that women everywhere are protected, supported, and free.
