Degree Holder Yet Uneducated

Vulnerability is seen as constructive in mental health – ‘its ok that you’re not ok’ is not negativity and not meant to shame someone for their vulnerability. But what if the general society agrees that you’re weak and discriminates for what Almighty intended you as a woman, and think that without it, a society doesn’t exist. Menstruation. A fundamental bodily process that impacts half of the global population, yet remains clouded in ignorance and taboo within society. Doesn’t it deserve now to be talked about? Ahead.

In this blog post titled “Degree Holder yet Uneducated,” I aim to bring attention to a crucial yet often neglected issue: menstruation education. Though you’re having a degree, I assume that you are arrogant on a very important knowledge, and the cause is the culture you live under and the norms you adapt. So, let’s clearly and openly talk about this topic by being open-minded and empathetic.

Observing the widespread lack of understanding and empathy towards menstruation, along with the prevalent stigma attached to it, has prompted me to delve into the societal constructs and gender biases that contribute to the pervasive silence and misinformation surrounding menstruation education. I have witnessed instances where individuals holding esteemed degrees demonstrate astonishing ignorance and discomfort when the topic of menstruation arises, even both men and women. That means that even the women themselves are victims of their mindsets, locked in stereotypes perpetuating a culture of shame and stigma that detrimentally affects women’s health and well-being. Let’s declare that this was a burden to our prior generations, of both genders, but now to shed light and let ourselves and the coming generation know that this topic is no longer a sense of shame and stigma.

Through this blog post, I aim to challenge societal norms and advocate for a Somali society where menstruation education is not only normalized but also celebrated as a vital aspect of human health and well-being. It is crucial to move beyond the mere biological aspects and delve into the social, cultural, and emotional dimensions of this essential aspect of women’s lives to reshape perceptions, promote awareness, and foster a culture of empathy and understanding towards menstruation and women’s health. The narrative intertwined with the culture of menstruation becomes crucial as culture, with its intricate web of beliefs, traditions, and norms, plays a significant role in shaping perceptions and behaviors surrounding menstruation.

Period stigma; persists due to historical beliefs, cultural taboos, and societal norms that have portrayed menstruation negatively. Throughout history and societies, various cultures have developed diverse attitudes towards menstruation, often reflecting deep-rooted beliefs about purity, fertility, and gender roles. These cultural perspectives have influenced the ways in which menstruation is perceived, discussed, and taught within societies. In many cultures, menstruation has been surrounded by secrecy, shame, and taboos, leading to a lack of open dialogue and education on the subject. Traditional practices and customs may perpetuate misconceptions and stigma around menstruation, further contributing to the marginalization of women’s health issues. Women often suffer in silence, and society remains oblivious to their struggles, exacerbating the challenges faced by women.

Regarding gender roles and expectations, cultural norms impacted how menstruation education is approached. Societies that uphold strict gender divisions like us Somalis – Muslim societies, reinforce the idea that menstruation is a solely female concern, excluding males from the conversation and perpetuating stereotypes and biases. Of course the way men perceive women and menstruation is often influenced by societal norms, cultural beliefs, Islamic misconceptions and personal experiences. Some men may view menstruation as a source of discomfort or embarrassment (NIJAASO), leading to a lack of understanding and empathy towards women’s experiences during their menstrual cycles. This discomfort can stem from a combination of cultural taboos, limited education on menstruation, and social norms that have historically marginalized discussions about women’s health.

It’s worth mentioning that not all men view menstruation negatively. Some men acknowledge it as a natural process and aim to foster a supportive and inclusive space for women to openly address their health concerns. This underscores our hope for every man – to openly discuss periods and promote normalization as a means to challenge the norms.

To create a more informed and accepting society, breaking the silence and promoting understanding around menstruation; we can work towards creating a society where menstruation is viewed as a normal and healthy aspect of women’s lives, deserving of empathy, support, and acceptance from all individuals, regardless of gender. How? By promoting education encouraging dialogue, breaking down taboos, promoting a culture of respect and understanding, open communication, and empathy, challenging misconceptions, and fostering a more positive and informed perspective on menstruation among men. Still, let me clarify!

Educating both boys and girls in schools about menstruation is essential for creating understanding and empathy. Meanwhile, boys should also receive basic education on menstruation to enhance their knowledge and awareness, girls should have comprehensive sessions to learn how to manage their periods effectively. This educational strategy states; updating school curricula to include information about menstruation, encouraging open dialogues and class discussions, involving male role models to set positive examples, and challenging existing stereotypes.

Central to these efforts is the need to challenge societal norms that perpetuate stigma and misinformation around menstruation; by gaining the support of educational institutions and implementing these changes, can cultivate a culture of understanding, empathy, and support regarding menstruation and women’s health among young boys and men in our society.

In the face of lingering menstrual stigma, it is imperative for men to act as advocates in dismantling these barriers and championing women’s health. As a man; it is essential to recognize your role in being part of the solution rather than perpetuating the issue. By educating oneself, dispelling myths, normalizing the issue and understanding, you can contribute to fostering an environment that is inclusive and supportive of women’s experiences. To the women: I acknowledge the hurdles and the struggles, but the time has arrived to courageously challenge antiquated notions and stereotypes that have perpetuated the stigma surrounding menstruation. By taking a stand, amplifying your voices, and advocating for a life free of shame and discrimination, you are driving the necessary change towards a more equitable and just society. Together – towards a society where menstruation is comprehensively understood, respected, and normalized, where mutual support is extended, and where inclusivity and diversity are embraced.

Drawing from my personal experiences as women and extensive readings about this topic, I challenge the existing norms by advocating for a holistic approach to menstruation education and community engagements. I emphasize the pressing need for inclusive and accurate education on menstruation to destigmatize the subject, foster empathy, and empower individuals to make well-informed decisions about their health, and by doing that, I previously published a blog named ‘the day we girls die.’ In that post, you may visit my website as it explains how deeply girls burn out during that time of every month.