Wrap it in brown paper, then take it to the counter.” This is what many girls in Pakistan may hear when they try to purchase a sanitary pad from the store. A menstrual product is expected to be wrapped away in shame, concealed within the arms of the girl bearing the packet, and hidden away from the judging sights of the Pakistani mind. Menstruation—a natural biological process—remains a topic wrapped in shame, secrecy, and misinformation. Most girls grow up believing menstruation to be something “dirty,” something that must be hidden away. As noted in research by Olson et al. (2022), the persistent stigma surrounding menstruation significantly hampers menstrual literacy and prevents open discussions about menstrual health. Beyond the inconvenience of limited access to hygiene products in rural areas and lack of education throughout Pakistan, this stigma has deeper, lifelong impacts—especially on mental health.
The Silent Struggle
From a young age, girls are taught to hide their periods. They are not supposed to mention it in front of men, keep it a secret from their fathers and brothers, and pretend to be fasting during the month of Ramadan, even if they are menstruating. These messages force the idea upon women that menstruation is something shameful. This stigma does not exist in isolation—it stems from a long history of menstrual messages, as documented by Roberts (n.d.), where menstruation has been depicted as impure and something to be hidden. The result? Generations of women growing up with anxiety, low self-esteem, and a deep-rooted sense of discomfort with their own bodies.
This stigma does not just grow feelings of embarrassment; it is damaging. Many girls, especially those residing in conservative households, struggle to access proper menstrual education, leading to confusion, fear, and, at times, even guilt. Research by Proff, Fatima, and Limón (2023) highlights that Pakistani girls face significant barriers in menstrual hygiene management, often due to cultural and familial restrictions. Many girls may not even be aware of what is happening when they first begin menstruating, and their reluctance to bring up the subject in front of their mothers and family only results in more damage, both physically and psychologically.
How Stigma Fuels Mental Health Issues
Menstruation already comes with emotional shifts—that are commonly regarded as “mood swings”—due to hormonal fluctuations. But, with the addition of persistent stigma, those natural fluctuations become something much worse. Women with conditions like Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) or, more severely, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are often dismissed as “moody” or “sensitive,” as their struggles are brushed aside. A critical review by Olson et al. (2022) emphasizes that menstrual stigma can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. The constant need to hide and suppress their experiences and struggles can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. Girls who feel ashamed while menstruating may withdraw from social activities or events, suffer from poor body image, and struggle with self-confidence. Since menstruation is considered taboo, they often feel as though they have nowhere to turn for help.
Shifting the Narrative
Of course, menstruation does not have to be viewed and treated this way. Having open conversations about menstruation can have a positive impact on many young girls’ lives and may even offer women who have more deep-rooted feelings of shame associated with menstruation the opportunity to grow and change their perspective. This could possibly shield future generations of women from this stigma. As Proff, Fatima, and Limón (2023) suggest, implementing comprehensive menstrual hygiene management programs in schools can help dismantle these barriers and create a supportive environment for young girls. Schools should educate girls about menstrual health and hygiene without hesitation, families should support their daughters without shame, and media should normalize menstruation instead of treating it like a dirty secret. If women and girls feel comfortable discussing the subject, they would feel informed, mentally strong, and confident in their bodies. Ending menstrual stigma is not just about hygiene; it’s about dignity, respect, confidence, and mental well-being. It’s time for us to break the silence.
