Menstruation is often a source of shame in young girls in many different cultures and societies. In some more progressive areas, it can instill pride, and a sense of womanhood. Traditions and practices like those in Africa or India can be condemning and shaming, while others like those practices by traditional Jews can be empowering if done correctly.

Cultural tradition has the ability to be empowering and beautiful. The mistake that is often made is connecting the menstrual cycle to dirt and filth. Let’s be honest, the idea of blood and other “stuff” coming out of one’s genitals isn’t exactly cute. It’s not often a fun process; it hurts, it’s expensive, and it often prevents you from having sex on demand.

With that being said, it is vital to recognize that while the menstrual cycle is not particularly elegant, it is imperative to the life-bringing process in women and it is an important biological function. Therefore, it is beautiful. It should be appreciated and recognized as an important process rather than a shameful period of time when women are not to be touched because they are unclean.