How to Talk About Periods Without Embarrassment

I still remember the early days of my period. I was young, unsure, and felt like it was something I—well, we—weren’t supposed to talk about openly. At school, tampons and pads were discreetly slipped into sleeves, period cramps were brushed off with awkward giggles, and even saying the word period felt like breaking a taboo.

But today, I ask myself: Why?

Periods are completely natural—a biological process that nearly half the world’s population experiences. And yet, there is still so much shame, discomfort, and stigma surrounding them. That shouldn’t be the case. That’s why I want to talk about how we can start speaking more openly and without embarrassment—with ourselves, with friends, with partners, and even in public.

Why Is the Period Still a Taboo Topic?

The answer is, unfortunately, complex. For centuries, menstruation has been associated with shame, disgust, and even superstition. In many cultures, people who menstruate have been (and still are) considered "impure"—a harmful myth that has been ingrained in societal norms and language.

Even modern media and advertising have played a role in keeping periods “hidden.” Think about classic pad or tampon commercials: instead of red liquid, they use blue. The message is often, "With this product, no one will notice you have your period!"—as if that were the most important thing.

But the good news is: Things are changing. More and more people are breaking the taboo and speaking openly about their periods. And if you want to, you can help make that change too.

How to Talk About Periods Without Embarrassment

1. Start With Yourself

I’ve learned that the way I think about my period affects how I talk about it.

I used to see my period as something unpleasant, something to endure. But today, I see it as a part of my body, my femininity, and my strength. And that mindset shift helps. Talk about your period the same way you would talk about any other biological function—without negative or shameful language.

Instead of saying:
"Sorry, I’m so moody, I have my period..."

Try saying:
"My period is here, so I’m taking some extra care of myself today."

Small changes in language can make a big difference—for you and those around you.

2. Talk Openly With Friends

Many of us have been taught to use code words for our periods: "Aunt Flo is visiting," "Shark Week," "That time of the month." That’s fine—but why not just say period?

If you sense that your friends feel uncomfortable discussing menstruation, try bringing it up casually. For example:

•  "Did you know we spend an average of seven years of our lives on our period? Crazy, right?"

• "I’ve been trying period underwear, and it feels so much better than tampons. Has anyone else tried it?"

Simply normalizing the conversation makes a difference. The more we talk about it, the more natural it becomes.

3. Communicate Clearly in Relationships

Whether you’re in a heterosexual or queer relationship, your partner should know that periods aren’t a “gross women’s issue” but simply a natural part of life.

I remember trying to hide my period cramps from my boyfriend, pretending I was fine. But when I started being more open and just said:

"Hey, I have my period and don’t feel great. Would you be okay with a cozy movie night instead?"

…I realized how relaxed he was about it—and how much better I felt not having to hide it.

Partners also benefit from open conversations about periods because it helps them understand and support us better.

4. Don’t Be Afraid of Public Conversations

Have you ever whispered when asking for tampons at a store? Or felt embarrassed pulling out a pad in public?

These are the exact moments when we can normalize periods—by stopping the secrecy.

• Carry your tampon or period underwear visibly in your bag—there’s no need to hide it.

• Ask for period products confidently—at a store, from friends, or even at work.

• Use clear language—don’t say “women’s problems,” just say “my period.”

Every time we talk about periods without embarrassment, we help move them toward being just as normal as any other body function.

Breaking the Taboo—One Conversation at a Time

I wish someone had told me earlier: There is absolutely no reason to be ashamed of your period. Today, I know that the more openly we talk about it, the more we break the stigma.

And you know what? There are so many amazing, modern ways to make periods more comfortable and sustainable—without annoying tampons or pads.

I personally switched to Gotyu period underwear a while ago, and I can’t imagine going back. No more worrying about leaks, no waste, no chemicals—just put them on, feel comfortable, and forget you even have your period.

So next time you talk about your period—just do it. Without shame. Because it’s nothing more than a sign that your body is doing exactly what it was meant to do.