How to Talk to your Partner about Periods

 

It is a fact that periods are a part of life and for most yet remain a very hushed topic that gets awkward in case there is love. In fact, breaking the taboo on periods usually means talking about periods openly, and to feel at ease and confident.

Set the Scene for Comfort First

Pick a time and place where both of you are comfortable. That can be an evening at home, a relaxing walk, or a lovely dinner. The idea is to choose a surrounding that doesn’t offer distraction or pressure but rather one that provides a candid talk with ample time.

Do Your Homework Before going for the Conversation

You should have enough information about menstruation. Knowledge of what the menstrual cycle is, what normal symptoms are, and the wide variety of experiences associated with it will enable you to articulate well and also answer the questions that one might ask.

Be Clear and Simple Whenever Discussing Periods

Be very clear and very simple in speech and don’t try euphemisms or medical terminology that will confuse your partner. Describe what a period is, in a simple manner, how it generally feels for you, and what in particular may be hard or tough for you.

Make it personal for Relatability

Let them know how your period affects you physically and emotionally. Inform about the kinds of symptoms you experience, like period  cramps, mood swings, or fatigue, and what they do to your day-to-day life.

Invite Questions 

Encourage your partner to ask you questions and share any thoughts or concerns they have. It can break many existing myths about periods. Be very open-minded with the way you respond because the fact that they are asking is because they do care about knowing more about you and being supportive of you.

Discuss Practical Support 

When we say discuss periods, we don’t just mean the biology behind it but a few practical aspects too. Talk to them about how your partner can better support you when you get your period emotionally, which may include doing physical things like taking over some chores, bringing you comfort items, such as a heating pad or your favorite snacks, or simply being understanding that you might be cranky, have menstrual pain and need to take it easy.

Address Emotional Needs

 Periods can influence not just physical well-being but emotional well-being as well, so make sure to address your needs during this time with the person you are close to. Let them know if you would appreciate more patience, kindness, or space. 

Normalise the Discussion about Periods with your Partner. 

The discussion of periods shouldn’t be treated as a taboo or as an awkward subject. One will become accustomed to talking about periods , and so would two partners, making this issue less awkward. Periods are a part of life. Discussing them openly can make lives easier, by eradicating the associated stigma from other people, giving mutual respect and understanding.

Be Patient and Compassionate 

Remember this is a lot of new information for your partner to process and they may need time to accept talking about it. You should be patient with them and show a lot of compassion toward them. Allow for this to be an open dialogue where either one can learn something new or understand each other more than before.

Utilize Resources together

Use resources as part of this conversation, take it up with both of you; through books, articles, and informative videos on menstrual talk and its management. This shared learning experience can better inform your partner and give them the grounds to hold further informed discussions with you.

Conclusion 

Having a Menstrual Hygiene Health Talk with your partner is a significant step in working toward a loving and understanding relationship. Do this by setting a comfortable environment, educating yourself, using clear & simple language, discussing some personal stories, and inviting open communication for a more intimate and empathic partnership. Bring it back down to earth, take care of some practical and emotional needs, and talk it over with heaps of patience and compassion. But then, after all, the one thing any surely healthy relationship needs would be good communication. After all, talking about periods is nothing less. Take a deep breath, embrace the awkwardness, and start the conversation. You might be surprised at how much closer it brings you both together.