Engage in Menstrual Health – For centuries, menstruation has been shrouded in secrecy, discomfort, and stigma. While progress has been made in breaking down taboos, there remains a gap in understanding—particularly when it comes to men’s roles in menstruation. Whether as partners, fathers, teachers, or colleagues, men have an important part to play in fostering a society where periods are not a source of shame but a recognised aspect of health and wellbeing.
A recent article by Evana, “Beyond the Stigma: Men’s Roles in Menstruation,” explores the deep-rooted stigma surrounding menstrual health and highlights why male involvement is crucial. Evana, a brand committed to empowering women through over-the-counter period pain relief and open conversations, is leading the charge in breaking down barriers with their #PeriodTalk campaign. But what does meaningful male involvement look like, and why does it matter?
Why Men Should Engage in Menstrual Health
Evana’s article on men’s roles in menstruation is an important step in encouraging these conversations, and their #PeriodTalk campaign is helping to redefine how society approaches menstrual health. Let’s all take part in breaking the silence—because menstruation matters to everyone.
The Historical Stigma of Menstruation
Throughout history, menstruation has been regarded as a taboo topic. In many cultures, periods have been linked to myths of impurity and weakness, perpetuating an unnecessary cycle of shame and silence. This stigma has not only led to the exclusion of women from certain spaces but has also fostered a lack of education—especially among men.
The result? A world where menstrual health is often misunderstood or dismissed, leaving many women to suffer in silence with heavy or painful periods, struggling to access the care and support they need. By acknowledging the historical bias and actively working to dismantle it, men can contribute to a more informed and supportive environment for the women in their lives.
Why Men Need to Be Part of the Conversation
Men may not experience menstruation firsthand, but they can still play an active role in normalising discussions about it. Understanding menstrual health isn’t just beneficial for women—it’s essential for creating an inclusive society where no one feels ashamed of a natural bodily function.
Consider these everyday scenarios: a father supporting his daughter through her first period, a teacher ensuring period products are available in schools, or a partner who is informed enough to offer emotional and practical support. Each of these interactions contributes to breaking the silence and challenging outdated perceptions.
By learning about the realities of menstrual health—including conditions such as endometriosis, heavy periods, and menstrual migraines—men can help reduce stigma and advocate for better policies, from workplace period provisions to improved menstrual healthcare services.
Practical Ways Men Can Support Menstrual Health
If men want to take an active role in menstruation awareness, here are a few practical steps they can take:
- Educate Themselves – Taking the time to learn about menstrual health, from the basics to more complex conditions, is the first step.
- Encourage Open Conversations – Whether at home, school, or work, being open about periods helps dismantle the stigma.
- Support Access to Products – Advocating for free and accessible period products in schools and workplaces ensures no one has to suffer due to lack of access.
- Challenge Period Myths – Addressing and correcting misinformation helps shift perceptions and normalises menstruation as a health issue rather than a taboo.
- Show Empathy and Support – Something as simple as acknowledging period pain or emotional fluctuations can go a long way in making women feel understood and supported.
Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive Future
Breaking the stigma around menstruation is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal issue. When men understand and support menstrual health, they help build a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and education. By taking an active role in discussions around periods, men contribute to a future where no one feels embarrassed about their own body.
Encouraging men to engage in conversations about menstruation isn’t about placing responsibility on them but about fostering a collective effort to create a world where menstrual health is no longer treated as a niche issue. Open dialogue can help change outdated attitudes, ensure better education for young people, and lead to policies that support menstrual health in workplaces and schools.
The more we work together to normalise menstruation, the closer we come to a society where no one feels ashamed, unprepared, or unsupported. It’s time for all of us—men included—to stand up for menstrual health and ensure that every individual has the knowledge, resources, and respect they deserve.
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
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