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How Did The Indian Tribe (American Natives) Deal With Their period

Pratha Bhatia

Who do you call a Native American? Native Americans are the individuals and their descendants who lived in the Americas when Europeans arrived. These individuals are oftentimes referred to as Indians, which can be misleading because the name Indian is also used to refer to people from India.

Menstruation plays a sacred role in Native American tribes. In the era where if women were not pregnant they were not considered to be in their natural state, Native American tribes viewed it as the moment when women transform into goddesses and connect spiritually with the moon. In addition as a link between humanity and spirituality. They celebrate with different rituals to honor blood. Their mindset was not just unique but was also refreshing to learn, as it amplifies the sacrality of periods and does not degrade any natural or biological processes.

When Native American women were menstruating, they were regarded with a rare and astounding amount of reverence.

Periods and menstruation have long been related to lunar cycles. To commemorate this crucial point in their lives, women would gather at a holy lodge for a few days to tell their stories and reflect on their spiritual roles. This was seen as a secure and private space for women rather than a restricting prison, where they could reach their spiritual peak. During the cycle, women did not engage in any chores or contact with men, this was in no way related to creating a feeling of shame in them, but so they could keep the dynamic power to themselves. Women's menarche, or first menstruation, has been commemorated with seclusion and holy ceremonies as a welcome to their powerful selves.

In many tribes, which now reside in the north of the US, menstruating women would gather in a holy cave and let the blood flow on the earthen ground to enhance the connection between the Earth and them. To them, menstruation was not seen as a part of the process of giving birth to life or a sign of maturity, rather, it was when women became respected figures in their communities. Once the cycle was over, women would wear unique attires and eat specific food to avoid getting the power contaminated.

Menarche was announced to the whole village with immense pride and was considered a celebratory event. These rituals are still practiced but no longer hold the same importance as before. It is something to wonder how these positive views of the menstruation cycle are limited to specific tribes and communities, yet the degradation of women during periods is so widespread that most of us still prefer for our cycles to pass in secrecy. When will we break all the taboos we have ingrained in our minds from our childhood and rise with pride? This generation is to inherit all of the benefits and consequences of the deeds and actions of our ancestors, then why haven’t we inherited this positive outlook of one of the most natural processes in the human body?

    How Women Dealt With Periods During Ancient Greek Times

    Shravani Kamat

    The history of menstrual hygiene begins with ancient civilizations. There is not much documentation about menstruation, probably because most of the scribes were created by men who chose not to include much about menstruation. Although women likely experienced much lighter periods than now, part of the reason why that was the case was due to malnourishment, and the other being that women started their menopause in the 40’s back then, while nowadays, menstruations usually occur while women are in their 50s.

    Indeed, there were also a lot of myths revolving around the topic of menstruation. It would sometimes be associated with magic and sorcery. Hippocrates of Kos, also famously known as the Father of medicine, wrote that the Ancient Greeks were known to make tampons from bits of wood with lines wrapped around them.

    However, many women simply bled in clothes. During the remarking height of Greek civilization, about 2,500 years ago, it was believed that menarche began when a girl turned 14, but if the process was delayed then the excess blood slowly gathered heart, showing symptoms of fever, erratic behavior, violent swearing, and even suicidal depression (later it was known as hysteria).

    In ancient Greece, woman’s menstrual bleeding was considered a cosmic event, relating and connecting one to the moon, the lunar cycles, and the tides. The word menstruation is etymologically related to the word ‘menses’ is derived from the Greek word ‘men which means moon. Hence, In ancient Greece, woman’s menstrual periods were considered a cosmic event, relating and connecting one to the moon, lunar cycles, and tides.

    During Ancient Greek spring festivals included spreading corn mixed with menstrual blood to increase fertility on the earth. Linen rags were used According to ancient Greek texts, the Norse god Thor achieved immortality after bathing in a river of menstrual blood, called Timur as pads. They were called ‘Dholakia which means ‘protection against’.

    Therefore, it can be said that women’s experiences over the years and generations have changed drastically and the trajectory has been toward greater and greater ease and comfort, in practice and in the cultural conversation.

    How Do Olympians Deal With Their Period During The Olympics?

    Pratha Bhatia

    2021 marks the first time the Olympic Games have reached near gender parity. Out of around
    11,000 athletes participated at the Tokyo Olympics, 49% of them were women, and at the
    Paralympics, at least 40.5% At the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Chinese swimmer Fu
    Yuanhui was questioned why she held her stomach after the 400 m relay race. She mentioned
    that she did not swim well, overwhelmed by her performance, the athlete felt she let down her
    teammates and country.

    Her period arrived the previous night, causing extreme exhaustion, preventing her from
    performing her best. Israel’s Lonah Chemtai Salpeter said her cramps got so bad during the
    marathon in Tokyo that she had to stop and take a break. She led for most of the 26.2-mile
    race, but with a few miles to go, her cramps got extremely painful. She finished at 66th place.
    Momentous events like the Olympics, are accompanied by intense pressure for all the
    athletes. However, the female contenders walk with an additional concern, their periods.
    Heavy cramps, headaches, bloating, and tenderness are just a few of the multiple effects of
    the menstrual cycle, impacting their performances drastically. Along with this, athletes
    become more prone to the risk of injury during particular points of their cycle. So, how do
    they deal with this?

    1. Period Monitoring
    Some athletes monitor their cycle to make sure they are exercising and competing at the
    optimal time of the cycle. The players use certain apps to track the cycles and train
    accordingly. In the year 2020, Chelsea Women (football) was the first club in the world to
    modify its training schedule to the athletes menstrual cycles to improve performance and
    reduce the risk of injuries.

    2. Birth Control
    Although taking oral contraceptives to delay or pause menstruation can affect women in
    multiple ways as it creates hormonal imbalances, it is a common practice among athletes.
    Before resorting to this step, women are to take advice from their doctors and talk about the
    uniqueness of their period. Most women athletes feel awkward talking about menstruation
    with their male coaches, and vice versa, thus avoiding the crucial topic and preventing them
    from getting the right information.

    3. Diet
    The Indian hockey team majorly focuses on this aspect of a woman’s well-being. They begin
    their work months in advance and it includes noting if the players suffer from iron deficiency
    as Indians are more prone to it as well as marking the regularity of periods. They believe in
    the importance of diet just before and during menstruation. Based on a player’s common
    symptoms, she is recommended to start taking specific foodstuffs like garlic or banana and
    the necessary pills. The athletes need to be consuming food such as spinach, brown rice, and
    lentils, as they are highly energizing.

    Menstruation has always been a taboo subject, but it shouldn’t be as it’s a key part of life for
    women, especially professional athletes. Young girls are quitting sports because of the lack of
    information, and if it’s not spoken about, they will have no idea how to deal with this and that
    would be a lot of potential being wasted just because of lack of information. Women do not
    have the choice to ignore basic physiology, they will have to play through that pain and
    blood.

    Destigmatizing the talk of periods will not only ease the lives of the players making their
    country proud but also encourage little girls to approach a career in sports with comfort.

    How Astronauts Deal With Their Period While In Space

    Krisha Bhatia

    Dealing with Periods in space have been a curious and mysterious issue for NASA’s engineers since their early days. Lots of planning goes into space missions, yet pads and tampons were never a part of them until Sally Ride became the first American woman in space in 1983. After wanting to send a hundred tampons to space with her, it was evident that they had no idea what to do, and they were not the only ones either.


    NASA’s medical staff were not sure how microgravity would affect menstruation, and it turns out menstruating in space is not very different than menstruating on Earth, and people have been working in space for decades now. However, dealing with space tampons is not very pleasant, and space cramps can be as unpleasant as Earth cramps. So scientists have come up with a possibility that maybe menstruating astronauts do not need to have their period at all. According to Varsha Jain, a gynecologist and visiting professor at King’s College London, a combined oral contraceptive, or the pill used continuously (without taking a week off to induce menstrual flow) is currently the best and safest option for scientists and astronauts who prefer not to menstruate in space. Skipping the pill for long-term space travel has added advantages, as the waste disposal system aboard the International Space Station cannot all handle menstrual blood, due to the toilet system being connected to the water reclamation system, recycling urine into safe drinking water. Personal hygiene can be hard in space as well due to limited shower facilities and water supply, and as a result, more and more astronauts are opting out of their period by turning to oral contraceptives during spaceflight and training.


    An IUD (intrauterine device), which is placed into the uterus by a doctor and can last three to five years, is the second most popular method. However, the effectiveness of an IUD in suppressing a person's period is highly dependent on the type of IUD utilized. Copper and hormonal IUDs are the two forms of IUDs available, with the latter being more effective. Another option is subdermal implants, which are safe to use for up to three years. It is crucial to note that none of these methods guarantee the suppression of all periods, and because every person is different, some methods are more reliable than others.


    A lot of information remains uncovered in terms of periods in space. Could the strong Gs astronauts encounter during launch cause an IUD to shift? Would a spacesuit capture an implant under the skin? Therefore, stronger research is required to further understand this topic, and we may discover newer, comfortable, and reliable methods to deal with periods in space.

      Periods In Various Religions

      Pratha Bhatia

      Every religion has its unique norms and regulations. It often is a part of a person’s essence and lifestyle. Although every religion may be unique, there is a point at which all of them meet, imparting the same base values of honesty, kindness, empathy, and love. Along with this, stereotypes (including, but not limited to) of menstruation being a taboo walk hand-in-hand. 

      These “stereotypes” were formed years ago, when appropriate sanitary options were not yet introduced, and neither was the precise knowledge imparted. But as time changed, people refused to change their mindsets, so these old, cliched thoughts persist. It is baffling that even after all the knowledge is laid before our eyes, many still isolate and exclude women when their period begins instead of modernizing their views to understand that it is nothing impure and undoubtedly nothing to be ashamed of. 

      Let us take a look at the unique yet similar view of every religion towards menstruation:
      1. CHRISTIANITY & JUDAISM: The Leviticus Bible prescribes that a menstruating woman must separate for seven days. Any object that she sits or lies on during this time becomes a carrier of impurity. Anyone who comes in contact with her becomes ritually unclean during this time, so contact with the woman during the 7 days and a week thereafter are strictly prohibited. A man who has sex with her is ritually desecrated for seven days, as opposed to one day when he comes into direct contact with her. Although in modern times, there is no consequence to become “impure”, women are not allowed to visit any sacred temples.

      2. ISLAM: Menstruating women are not permitted to fast during the holy month of Ramadan and have to make up for them after. The Quran does not mention forbidding prayer, but this was added by scholars years later in the name of following traditions. It is also not permissible for a man to have intercourse with his menstruating wife. Pilgrimages and entrance into mosques are allowed but are supposed to be excluded from praying. Purifying themselves with a “holy bath” is required after the end of their period.

      3. BUDDHISM: From a Buddhist point-of-view, menstruation is “a natural physical excretion that women have to go through monthly, nothing more or less.” In practice, however, this is not followed. This is due to the influence that Hinduism had on Buddhism. Many temples do not allow the entry of women. During menstruation, it is believed that women lose their spiritual energy. There is a Buddhist belief that spirits feed on blood, therefore, this tends to make them believe that a menstruating woman attracts ghosts and hence poses a threat to herself and others.

      4. SIKHISM: Menstruation does not cause women to be considered impure in Sikhism, and a woman is not restricted from temples either. Taboos surrounding menstruation and childbirth are absent from the Sikh worldview. Guru Nanak openly rebukes those who attribute impurity to women for their menstruation and is boldly against sexism. Menstruation is viewed as a natural process.

      5. HINDUISM: In Hinduism, anything that is an excretion from the body i.e. sweat, blood, tears, etc. is considered to be toxic, thereby including menstrual blood. It is associated with darkness and/or obscurity. Hence, touching a woman who is on her period, is an inappropriate act. Hinduism is more specific when it comes to menstruation, women cannot enter the kitchen or temples, sleep during the day, bathe, bring/touch flowers, have sexual intercourse, touch other men or women and speak loudly. Seeing, touching, talking, and eating food prepared by a woman during her menstruation is also considered impure. In certain parts of India and Nepal, women are not allowed to live in the same house as other family members.

      How Women Deal With Periods In North Korea

      Shravani Kamat

      The cultural stigma associated with menstruation and related topics has led to a lack of education and general silence. Women in North Korea go through my hardships when it comes to sanitary products and essential health services. It turns out that periods are considered a shameful thing in North Korea.

      There are very few conversations between women talking about menstruation and topics related to it. Some of them became aware of it through education in school, that information was not enough and less than what they needed.

      There are a lot of superstitions related to it as well. For example, due to the lack of knowledge about menstruation, some women even believed they might die after their first period. Even though the gynecologists are present in North Korea in certain parts, it is of no use to consult them as they would prescribe some herbal medicine and never prescribe western medication. The majority of women could take painkillers as a pill to relieve the period pain, unfortunately, it is not easy to find medicines in North Korea.

      Most women use cloth as sanitary pads made of gauze. The gauze would either be store-bought or handmade at home. There are also disposable sanitary pads available but they will be a bit more expensive than the gauze. For the gauze to be reuse again, they have to be washed, dried well in the sunlight for disinfectant. Although, they require space to do this which becomes a problem in North Korea.

      Certain brands produce disposable sanitary pads in North Korea while some will be imported from China, which comparatively is a bit cheaper. Taedonggang is the most popular brand in North Korea, followed by Changmi which is a rose Mihwabuli which is the yellow-billed cross beak. Women over there would usually buy disposable sanitary pads when they were traveling for longer hours and it seemed a bit wasteful to them to spend so much money on it and it requires to be changed more often than the cloth ones.

      They usually come in medium-sized and big sized as compared to the cloth ones which are uniform in size. Women in the military would be provided with sanitary pads but they will sell them in themarket to buy something like medicines with that money. The situation of women in detention facilities is the most difficult as they are not provided with basic sanitary products.

      There are only a few workplaces in North Korea that would allow menstrual leaves, places where there are predominantly women, like sewing factories. Although the inadequate knowledge and facilities in North Korea restrict the actual practice and handling of menstruation, women try to obtain and use sanitary products.

        Can You Go Horse Riding While On Your Period?

        Author

        Physical activities and exertions often worry us menstruators. It may seem daunting or even impossible. Today’s sport of focus is horse riding. SHOULD you ride a horse on your period? CAN you even ride a horse on your period? We debunk myths and offer tips and tricks to help you face the fear of riding on your period head-on. Read on further to find out.

        Horse riding is a very physical sport that requires hours of practice to BE perfect. Adding a painful menstrual cycle to the mix doesn’t help anyone. Even if you’re a trained rider or even a beginner taking a few classes, you’re bound to fall victim to your period once in a while. While you are definitely A-okay to ride a horse on your period, there are things you need to know beforehand.
        A lot of menstruators probably worry about cramps and being unable to curl up in a comfortable position to relieve them. This, however, may not be a problem once you start riding as your riding induced increasing heart rate and the release of endorphins will help to reduce cramps. Although, the Estrogen in your body may cause tiredness that may affect your riding and affect the elasticity of your joints which sometimes make you feel as though your ankles aren’t stable enough. It is advised to wear tampons or menstrual cups as pads may move around and cause discomfort. Many choose to wear tampons rather than pads and menstrual cups when riding. The fear of leakage and saddle staining might still be there. 

        There are some precautions that are advised to be taken before riding. These should be followed to ensure a good riding experience. The first is to drink a lot of water. Staying hydrated helps with cramps, bloating, and is very good for our overall health. The next tip is to take it easy when riding. While it may be less “fun” to take it easier, you need to make sure you don’t over-work yourself during your period. If you are able to, wear padded underwear. This lessens the impact of the saddle and makes riding more enjoyable. Padded underwear also catches any accidental drops, preventing leakage.

        Do horses know you’re on your period? This myth claims that menstruating people should not handle stallions as they can smell your period and will become dangerous as the smell is similar to a mare in heat. This, however, is completely FALSE! While yes, stallions maybe do know you’re on your period, They don’t think you’re in heat. A person on their period is the exact opposite of a mare in heat. So do not worry! You are all good to go and have a great riding experience.

        Horse riding and other physical activities may scare you at first, but remember; never let anything stop you from doing what you love. If the right precautions were taken, you should be completely fine to ride a horse, go for a run, swim, or do anything you want to!

        How Periods Are Portrayed In Movies & TV Shows

        Raz Dhar


        You will be surprised to hear that until as recently as 1972 the advertisement pads and tampons were banned on TV! And even when the ban was lifted The advertisement was far from accurate. After 13 years, in 1985 the word period was first uttered on a TV commercial.

        The evolution of what we think and talk about periods are very much influenced by what is shown on screen. Following are some portrayals of period on screen showing us how far we have come in exploring the full potential experience of menstruation.

        1. Carrie (1976) Period scene from the movie Carrie is one of the most well known in the history of film and it was the first to portray menstrual blood on screen. The director's approach is intentionally traumatized and horrific as Carrie in the scene believes that she is bleeding to death and acts traumatized, while her classmates throw pads and tampons at her Saying, plug it up! The film clearly portrays menstruation as something gross and embarrassing.

        2. My girl (1991) In the classic film my girl, Vada mistakes her first period for a hemorrhage, while her dad’s girlfriend tries to calm her down and explains her about basic facts of sexual matter particularly the basics of birds and bees. Vada declares it not fair that nothing happens to boys.

        3. The Cosby Show (1984 – 1992) One of the earliest examples of realistic first period came in 1990 on the show called the Cosby show, where Rudy, the youngest member of the family gets her first period. Clair starts to plan a women’s day where they celebrate the first period rather than seeing it as something embarrassing or shameful. But Rudy, not being interested, decides to go out with her friends, who scare her with urban legends. But Clair eventually steps in, and reassures Rudy that periods are normal and important.

        Hence this shows how the onscreen portrayal of menstruation has evolved with time. There were obviously many hits and miss but eventually we are getting towards a phase where periods are depicted as normal and natural.

        Movies and films finally started sharing accurate information about menstruation which is not only beneficial but is also very essential to develop a sense of understanding about periods in the minds of young people.

        Periods During The Renaissance

        Divya Bhatia

        Menstrual hygiene through history is an intriguing topic. There have been many myths
        surrounding menstruation. It all begins with ancient civilizations. People have experienced
        periods since before humans were completely evolved. Despite all this there has been very little
        documentation about menstruation in ancient history, probably due to the fact that most scribes
        were men and chose not to record periods. With the very little documentation we can tell one
        thing that people experienced a much lighter menstrual cycle than we do, it's mainly due to the
        malnourishment and the fact that people started menopause around the age 40. Although now
        people usually begin menopause much later, around age 50. People believed that menstruating
        people were associated with magic and sorcery. 

        Roman author and philosopher Pliny the elder wrote that a menstruating person can stop hail storms and lightning and kill crops. It was also believed that they could kill bees, dim minors and rust weapons by looking at them. While we hear about these crazy myths surrounding periods no one surely knows what they used for menstrual hygiene. Some historians believe that in ancient Egypt people used tampons made of softened papyrus, while in Greek people made tampons from bits of wood with lint wrapped around them and Romans made pads and tampons out of wool. 

        Again, menstruation during medieval times also was not properly documented. Historians usually conclude that most medieval women used rags or other absorbent materials during heavy periods, otherwise they chose to free bleed when the flow was light. Around this time there was also a lot of religious shame surrounding periods many people went to insane lengths to hide their periods from
        public. 

        They would carry little pouches of herbs around their necks or waist to neutralize the
        smell of blood. It was believed that burning a toad and wearing the ashes in a pouch around their
        waist would ease their cramps and flow. During the Victorian era to late 1900s people started to
        figure out it wasn't sanitary to bleed into their clothes, and this is where the history of Menstrual
        products began. 

        First to come was the Hoosier sanitary belt, from 1890s to 1970s people could
        purchase washable pads that were attached to this belt. It was very uncomfortable to use so in
        1888 the first disposal pad came into the market. They were known as lister's towels these were
        developed by Johnson and Johnson. People also started using wood pulp bandages used in
        hospitals as disposable pad. It was highly absorbent and generally used to bandage wounded
        soldiers, it was cheap and worked well for menstruation. This same material was used in the first
        kotex pads. 

        In 1929 the first tampon was invented by Dr. Earle Haas. He developed a plug of
        cotton inserted using two cardboard tubes removed with a chord that extended outside the
        vagina. He got this idea from a friend who would tuck a sponge inside their vagina to absorb the
        Menstrual blood. Finally in 1970 self adhesive people could attach to their underwear. Once that
        was introduced to the market the Hoosier belt was quickly phased out.

        Sudden Period At School? Here's What You Can Do!

        Raz Dhar

        No one wants to encounter a period at school! But periods are very common andThey can come anywhere anytime. So what should you do if you face a suddenan unexpected period at school? Find your answer here!


        1. Be PreparedYou can not always predict but can prevent these worry by carrying yoursupplies with you. Supplies such as pads, tampons, menstrual cups in yourbackpack, purse, or locker. These items will be at your rescue if you getunexpected period at school. Sanitary Pad is an absorbent item worn by womenwhen menstruating, which sticks to the underpants. You can also use tampons,it is an absorbent plugs which are inserted in the vagina. Tampons can be moreconvenient for you if you are into sports. Your other option can be a menstrualcup which is also known as Diva cup, it is a flexible funnel shaped cup made ofrubber or silicon that you insert into your vagina to collect period fluid.


        If you have not had your periods yet, you can talk to someone who can guideyou or help you to get your supplies together. It can be your mother, an eldersister or anyone you feel comfortable with. If it is not your first period than youshould keep a track about your period dates, so that you would know when it isgoing to arrive. Make sure you are all ready and prepared for the day wheneverit arrives.


        2. What if your clothes are stained?Most probably your first period will be quite heavy and you will figure it outbefore your clothes get stained, but in case it does you should visit a nurse orcounselor. You do not want to be worried all day that someone might see thatstain. You can always carry an extra pair of sweatpants or sweater which youcan tie around your waist.


        If you do not have an extra pair of clothes, you will need to see someone on theschool staff to call your parents and ask them to get you an extra pair of cloth orpick you up to take you home. Throughout this process you should not feelembarrassed or ashamed because it is very normal!


        Although it is not very convenient to get your periods at school, alwaysRemember there are people you can turn to for help. If you stay prepared it willhelp you to tackle the situation in a better way. Also remember to helpyour friends if they go through such a similar situation. And know that it is okaywherever you get your periods – it is not a big deal, this has happened to mostpeople who menstruate.

          How Many Times A Day Should You Change Your Pads/Tampons?

          Pratha Bhatia

          How often do you change your pads/tampons during your period? Most of us wait until our
          sanitary napkins are “full” to do so. But, your pad/tampon should be changed before it gets
          full. It is necessary to do so before it leaks or reeks! Sweat and bacteria usually reside down
          there, but especially during our periods, the blood and trapped moisture make us more
          susceptible to infections like yeast infection urinary tract infection, or skin rashes. So, how
          many pads should we use in a day? The answer varies from person to person and includes
          consideration of a few factors. Although a rough estimate would be 4-5 pads per day, that is,
          change it every 4 hours! If you are using tampons, it is recommended to change them every
          once in 2 hours.

          Few factors to keep in mind are:
          1. Exercise: After an engaging workout, and loads of sweat dripping, it can get quite
          uncomfortable to not change. Sweat comes with additional bacteria, which can make
          things stinky and wet.

          2. Weather: Especially during the hot and humid climates, one must change their
          pads/tampons before it gets too clammy down there.
          The flow of the day: The frequency of changing your pad highly depends on your
          flow. More the flow, more frequently you need to change. The first 2-3 days usually
          come with the heaviest flow. This does not mean that you avoid changing
          pads/tampons when you have minimal flow, you must change them at regular
          intervals.

          3. Quality of Sanitary Napkins: There are a variety of pad selections suited for every
          need or situation. They come in different lengths, absorbencies and so much more.
          One should always use the lowest absorbency tampon depending on the menstrual
          flow on that particular day of your period. Using super-absorbency tampons on the
          lighter days of your period puts you at risk for TSS.

          Using period products that are inserted into the vagina, like menstrual cups, tampons, and
          discs have different risks. One of them includes the Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), which is
          rare but life-threatening caused by bacteria. It is highly recommended by experts to switch to
          a pad at least during the night.

          Many of us, on long days, decide that we should use two sanitary or tampons with sanitary
          pads together. Although this may be with a heavy flow, it is an unhealthy option. Two
          sanitary methods would absorb more discharge, which makes us not want to change for a
          longer duration. This is an unhealthy tendency and could even make us prone to TSS.
          Is it okay to go a whole school day without changing your pad/tampons?

          Going an entire school day without changing pads or tampons is not a smart idea. Bacteria
          can build up no matter how mild your flow is, or even if there is none at all. It is important to
          stay hygienic when it comes to our well-being. Not changing sanitary pads/tampons can be
          extremely harmful to our bodies, especially if we engage in sports or rushing around from
          class to class. It is crucial to have information about feminine hygiene products to stay safer
          and fresher during our periods.

          Life Hack: How To Clean Period Stains From Your Clothes

          Krisha

          Whether it’s an injury or period stains, you’ll be dealing with blood removal for a long, long
          time. Period stains can occur anywhere, from panties to denim, towels, and more. The good
          news is that period stains are not a huge issue and it’s completely normal. Even better, there
          are a plethora of methods to remove period stains from clothes. Here are some ways to
          remove blood stains from your clothing, some of which may surprise you!

          Before you try removing period stains with any products, ensure to check the care tag on your
          clothing to prevent the fabric from getting spoiled and to prevent discoloration. Make sure to
          use the care instructions as your guide but in cases of clothing made of wool, silk, leather,
          spandex, etc, bleaching is not recommended. Like most stains, blood is easiest to remove
          when fresh. So whenever you see a stain on your clothing, try to get rid of it as soon as
          possible. Firstly, run the stained clothing under cold water. If the stain is fresh, run it under
          cold water to remove most of the blood. You’ll be amazed to see how much blood can be
          coaxed out just by using water! 

          For stains that are more set in, various household items can help in getting rid of them. Hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice are some great options for removing stains from lighter-colored clothes. Remember that this method can discolor darker clothing, so make sure to test them on an unnoticeable area before use. Baking soda is another common household item that can be used to remove stains. Mix baking soda (amount depends on the stain) with some water to create a paste. Apply this paste on your stained article of clothing and allow it to sit for a minimum of thirty minutes up to overnight, and then launder the clothing as usual. When you’re on the go, saltwater or saline can come in handy. Table salt and cold water do a great job at removing stains. If you wear contacts, you
          can use your saline solution for the same effect. 

          Never use hot water or warm water to wash stains. The hot or warm water heats the stain and will cause the blood to seep deeper into the fabric. A bonus tip for furniture such as chairs, sofas, and sheets; place an ice cube over the stain and let it melt completely, this may leave a water patch but will get rid of most of the stain.
          S

          ometimes with stains, the only thing you can do is to keep trying. Stains may not go away
          after quite a few tries as well, and when you’re done, treat yourself! You’ve earned it!

          Can You Swim While On Your Period?

          Adeeba Shaikh

          The fear of leaking out and staining your outfit, or your period completely stopping you from doing
          the things you love such as swimming, are common fears if your period arrives right before a swim
          session or a beach day. As for answering the myth on whether or not your period stops in the water,
          the answer is no. Due to the water pressure, there might be a reduction in the period flow, or in
          simpler words, your period blood is flowing, but simply not at the same rate as it would on land. 

          To avoid leakage, there might as well be a few steps to be followed:
          1. Tampons: Can be a go-to for swimmers considering they’re easier to use as well as small and
          comfortable if used in the right way. Though, it is necessary to change the tampons frequently and
          wash your hands before and after to avoid any causes for vaginal irritation. In rare cases, not doing
          so can lead to toxic shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening.

          2. Menstrual Discs: An unpopular option, because the application can be a hassle, especially during the beginning of one's cycle, as well as the fact that they’re non-reusable. However, they prove to be a great option for active swimmers since they collect period blood and eventually prove to be more
          comfortable than tampons or period cups.

          3. Menstrual Cups: With the bonus of being reusable, menstrual cups proves to be a safer option
          compared to tampons. They require to be changed once every 6-12 hours, accompanied by good
          hygiene discipline.

          4. Period-friendly swimwear: Owing to the advancements in technology companies such as Thinx and
          Ruby Love, they managed to come up with period-friendly swimwear with built-in leak protection.
          Period-friendly swimwear is a great option. Though the drawbacks are that they are not
          recommended during a heavy flow and are a bit pricey.

          The most important rule is to follow a good hygiene practice in order to avoid infections.
          The reason why pads and panty liners are recommended to be avoided if one would like to swim
          during their period, is that they work on the mechanism of absorption and in water not only will they
          absorb the menstruation blood but also water. Additionally, the risk of adhesive not sticking on
          swimwear material is high as well, further risking losing the pad or liner in the water. Hence, they
          prove it to be a very risky and harder to manage option.

          On a more positive side, it is proved that swimming, an aerobic exercise, can help relieve your
          premenstrual symptoms. A study performed on 70 people in 2018 proved that most of them
          experienced a significant decrease in psychological and physical symptoms of their PMS.
          Answering a well-searched query on Google, ‘Do periods attract sharks?’, yes sharks have a great
          sense of smell, but due to that they also pick up many other smells along with blood. For the sake of
          further reassurance, yes sharks can sense most bodily fluids, BUT, they are not interested in them,
          hence the chances of you being a shark’s feast are far too slim:)

          Perception And Practices On Menstruation Amongst Nigerian Secondary School People

          Raz Dhar

          A descriptive study was conducted amongst 550 different secondary school girls in southeastern
          Nigeria to determine their perceptions and practices on menstruation. The majority of the
          students involved in the study were aged between 15-17 years. Only some percent (39.3%)
          assessed menstruation to be physiological.
          The most common medical problem encountered by the respondents were abdominal pain or
          body discomfort involving (66.2%) although some had multiple problems. The medical problems
          faced by students were most commonly discussed with their mothers and least with their teachers
          that is only (0.4%), the reason may include shame, lack of communication, or less facility. The
          study showed that analgesics were most commonly used to treat menstrual cramps and only a
          few (10%) respondents used non-pharmacological remedies. Unhygienic or impure absorbents
          were used by 55.7% of the respondents. This shows their menstruation practices were often
          incorrect.
          These Nigerian second school students also experience shame and embarrassment due to the fear
          of stains, odors, or leaks and this could cause them to become distracted or uncomfortable while
          in class. The respondents who experienced stains explained how they felt extremely ashamed and
          embarrassed by unexpected menstruation in class. Due to this fear, some respondents described
          that they prefer to stay at home while they are on their periods or during the onset of their
          periods which affects their studies.
          Findings from this study revealed the materials used during menstruation by the respondents
          which includes pads, toilet papers, and pieces of cloth, most common pieces of blouses, towels
          or wrappers which are torn and cut into small pieces to be used as an absorbent. The
          Other materials mentioned includes papers during emergencies or diapers or plain underpants
          along with the use of rags.
          Some girls explained that they bathe once a day to three times a day. Changing menstruation
          materials were closely associated with the washing of the body hence the girls usually change
          their sanitary material once or thrice a day. On the other hand, some girls responded that they felt
          changing the material is only required when stained. Many of the girls couldn’t practice bathing
          while menstruating in school due to the lack of facility of water.
          Respondents reported that during their menstrual phase they were mostly unable to concentrate
          in the class due to high cramps, body discomfort, anxiety, and the fear that they might get
          stained. This caused distractions and reduced attention during class which caused the
          unwillingness of the girls to participate in school activities.
          Early or child marriage: Data from the study also revealed that early marriages after menarche
          was also a common practice in the northern part of Nigeria. This is because the girls who
          attained menarche are considered mature and conceivable.
          It is a common belief of the northern Nigerians that the girl should not stay at their parents' house
          after their third period.
          Early sexual interactions and teenage pregnancy: Respondents identified teenage pregnancy and
          early sexual interaction as a potential risk for menstruating girls. Several girls described that they
          were told not to go near boys during their period because they might get pregnant. Young
          teenagers who were engaged in early sexual activity were unaware of the contraceptive methods
          which often lead to an unplanned pregnancy. This may affect the girl mentally and physically.

          Vaginal Physiology During Menstruation

          Pratha Bhatia


          Our bodies go through a variety of physiological changes before, during, and after menstruation.
          The changes include variations in the shape and texture of vaginal tissues, the cervix, vaginal
          discharge, and much more.
          Let us start with:

          Vaginal Discharge.
          Changes occur in color and thickness that help create completely natural conditions necessary for
          the onset of fertilization. The discharge varies with the levels of progesterone and estrogen in the
          blood throughout the cycle.

          On days approaching ovulation, mucus is more likely to be watery, elastic, and cream-like in
          appearance, quantity increases by 30 times.

          During ovulation, discharge is at the highest level, and color and consistency are like an egg's.
          End of the period, discharge is brownish (old blood), which signifies the end of your period.
          Days immediately after the period, little to no discharge is spotted. Some women may feel dry.
          In the next few days, the discharge significantly increases and appears cloudy, white, or yellow,
          and sticky-to-touch.

          Vaginal Tissues
          The walls of the vagina constitute different layers of tissue. The surface layers of the vaginal
          wall are mucosal tissue, like the tissue that is present on the lining of your digestive tract, nose,
          and mouth. Underneath the mucosal tissue are layers that give the vagina structure and the ability
          to stretch, these layers are of smooth muscle tissue, collagen, and elastin fibers. Estrogen is
          highest around mid-cycle, and that is when the vaginal tissue becomes fuller and thicker.

          The Cervix
          The cervix located above the vagina connects the vagina and uterus. It also changes shape and
          moves throughout the cycle. When women are fertile, the hole in the cervix opens to let the
          sperm enter the uterus readily, and the cervix becomes soft when touched and rises higher in the
          vagina. This happens as a response to the release of a hormone called prostaglandins which are
          tiny chemical messengers involved in the inflammatory response.

          Vaginal Itching
          Itching during periods is completely normal!
          During menstruation, there is a fluctuation in the vaginal microbiome. The vaginal microbiome
          is a healthy bacteria that reside in our vagina. Due to presence of blood and changes in
          hormones, there is a slight variation in the bacterial population and yeasts (which can cause
          infection), which increases the itching in the vagina. It is important to NOT use feminine hygiene
          washes as they wash away the good bacteria and invites the bad bacteria and yeast to grow more
          and that makes the itching much worse.

          Vaginal pH Levels
          A vagina’s pH level varies from 3.5 to 4.5, and this balance may be easily disturbed during the
          menstrual cycle. Blood has a pH level of 7.4, so the vagina’s pH levels increase significantly by
          menstrual fluids, particularly if we use tampons that hold those fluids inside. An unbalanced
          vaginal pH can lead to issues like vaginal discomfort and unpleasant odor.

          And lastly……

          Contractions
          Yes, you can have them even though you are not about to give birth!
          In response to prostaglandins, the womb makes slow, rhythmic contractions. This happens to
          ensure the lining is shed and reaches in the vagina. It is also the cause of period pain in the back,
          lower abdomen, thighs, and buttocks due to the connection of the nerves that supply the pelvic
          area.

          Can Toxic-Shock Syndrome Ever Not Be Associated With Menstruation?

          Kushi Khan

          While we note the early 1980s as the start of the Toxic-Shock Syndrome (TSS) outbreak inyoung women caused by a brand of super-absorbent tampons, the first cases were first identifiedin 1978 within a group of children that fell ill. Surprisingly, the publics’ concern was moreprominent after the second outbreak in menstruating women. Between 1979 and 1980, TheUnited States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had received many reports aboutotherwise healthy women suddenly afflicted by TSS. The initial hypothesis after the first set ofinterviews claimed that the common factor between the women was simple; they all menstruated.Further interviews and investigations “proved” the theory of menstruation leading to TSS as allthe women used the same brand of super-absorbent tampons called Rely (soon taken off themarket). It was then concluded that women who used tampons were more likely to contract TSS.The short and simple answer to the title question is yes. We should not always associate TSSwith menstruation as menstruation does not directly cause someone to fall sick with TSS. Yes,this origin story is more known and remembered, yet, many ignore the 1978 cases. Though it isunclear why menstruation may put someone at risk for TSS, there have been speculations. TSS iscaused by a toxin released by the overgrowth of two bacteria’s. Staphylococcus aureus (staph)and Streptococcus pyogenes (strep). While you need the bacteria to come down with TSS,having the bacteria doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get TSS. During menstruation, the pH in thevagina is even lower than usual. Many say that a tampon saturated in blood along with thechange in pH is a very supportive environment for a staph to reproduce. Staph is normallyalready present in us and given the right conditions, will thrive. During my time researching forthis article, from over ten notable websites, almost all the causes remained the same. Tamponsbeing both implicitly and explicitly linked to TSS. As said before, having the bacteria doesn’tmean having TSS. Some people naturally have staph on their skin and their body and while thismay seem concerning, it mostly isn’t. The bacteria, wherever it may be, needs to enter thebloodstream to affect you in any way. Using tampons may cause microscopic cuts inside thevagina, which let staph in, yet this reasoning cannot justify cases in men and children. Cuts andscratches all over someone's body may be infected with staph, causing it to enter thebloodstream. The first outbreak (children) was most likely due to injury coming in contact withstaph and then the others coming into contact with the unwell. However, this is not proven. TSSaffects mostly women, and this is true, though it also affects men and children. Toxic-ShockSyndrome is rather rare, but if caught can be very deadly. TSS may be deadly but doesn’t alwayshave devastating effects on the person. The risk of coming down with TSS is increased bytampons, open wounds, surgery, childbirth, and other various infections. Anyone can reducetheir risk of contracting TSS by never leaving wounds unattended, following very carefully theinstructions on your tampon box, and keeping up to date with your health.

            Menstruation And Acute Psychiatric Illness

            Krisha Bhatia

            TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions of trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, alcohol abuse, sexual abuse
            A psychiatric disorder is a mental illness diagnosed by a mental health professional that greatly
            disturbs your thinking, moods, and/or behavior and seriously increases your risk of disability,
            pain, death, or loss of freedom. Comprehending the relationship between psychiatric disorders
            and menstrual characteristics is important to assess the care each person requires. Regularity and
            length of menstrual cycles are linked to particular current and lifetime diseases.

            Premenstrual syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS, consists of various cognitive and
            emotional symptoms that affect up to 20% of people of reproductive age. Symptoms of PMS
            usually begin during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and are exacerbated by an increase in
            cramp intensity and neurotic personality, which share characteristics with several psychiatric
            disorders. PMDD on the other hand, also known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a highly
            severe form of PMS. PMDD statistics tell us that about 1 in 20 people who menstruate
            worldwide struggle with PMDD, however, the number may be higher as some people do not
            come forward with their struggles due to the fear of stigmatization. Emotional symptoms of
            PMDD include lasting irritability or anger that may affect other people, anxiety, panic attacks,
            severe mood swings or crying often, lack of interest in daily activities, tiredness or low energy,
            and even suicidal thoughts and/or attempts. 

            Physical symptoms of PMDD include acne, gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, heart palpitations, and changes in appetite, amongst others. Although the exact cause of PMDD is unknown, various studies talk about the correlation between trauma history and PMDD. One study found a close link between childhood trauma and PMDD, with early childhood sexual abuse making a person 6.7 times more likely to develop PMDD. 

            Scientists have also examined the link between PMDD and genetics. Research shows that particular variations in one’s genetic composition predispose them to PMDD. PMDD also tends to co-occur with other conditions, given its severity of physical and emotional symptoms. PMDD and depression are closely related. Depressive symptoms and anxiety are, in fact, part of the diagnostic criteria for PMDD. PMDD and alcohol abuse are also correlated, as alcohol tends to worsen the negative symptoms of the disorder. The use of substances to self-medicate is also not uncommon in the case of PMDD. A staggering 30% of people with PMDD attempt suicide. This figure only includes people who have
            attempted suicide and does not include people who suffer from suicidal ideation as a result of
            PMDD.

            Various treatments can be implemented, both natural and medicinal, to control the symptoms of
            PMDD. Natural treatments include practicing aromatherapy, adding herbal supplements to your
            diet, and trying yoga or meditation, while medicinal treatments if needed, include anti-
            depressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These change serotonin levels
            in the brain, birth control, or over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Every
            person is different, and each person must receive the care they require.

            The Endocrinology Of Menstruation

            Cindy

            The endocrine system comprised of the relative multitude of the body's various hormones,
            controls all-natural cycles in the body from birth through adulthood and into old age, including
            the improvement of the brain and sensory system, the development and capacity of the
            reproductive framework, just as the metabolism and glucose levels. The female ovaries, male
            testicles, and pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal organs are significant constituents of the endocrine
            framework.

            The hypothalamus and pituitary gland control the monthly cycle. The hypothalamus triggers the
            pituitary gland to make hormones that trigger the ovaries to make estrogen and progesterone.
            These hormones make the coating of the uterus (belly) thicker to set up the body for pregnancy.
            On the off chance that pregnancy doesn't occur, hormones levels drop and the coating of the
            uterus leaves away. This is known as a period or monthly cycle. The cycle then, at that point
            happens again and rehashes the same thing until menopause.
            Simply put, your immune system's job is to combat illness. When you eat healthy foods and keep
            active, your immune system is strengthened, making it more capable of fighting infection. You
            weaken it when you eat junk food and are stressed for long periods of time, making infection
            more likely.

            A study conducted by researchers at Oxford University found that when estrogen levels drop
            during ovulation, the immune system is to some degree stifled. This is on the grounds that the
            chemical progesterone needs to energize a pregnancy, while the immune cells need to ward off
            all unfamiliar trespassers in the body. Thus, the immune cells attempt to assault a prepared egg
            and along these lines prevent a pregnancy from happening, and the progesterone attempts to stop
            them.

            So relying upon where you are in your menstruation cycle, and what chemicals are working
            hardest, research shows that on specific occasions you might have an expanded shot at being
            vulnerable to getting sicknesses. Sex hormones including estrogen, progesterone, and
            testosterone appear to have an influence on the immune system's functionality. There is an
            indication that premenopausal women's bodies respond differently to diseases and infections
            over the course of their menstrual cycle, presumably due to sex hormone fluctuations.
            Since estrogen levels rise throughout the follicular phase of your menstrual cycle (typically from
            the first day of your period to ovulation), you'll certainly have increased levels of antibodies,
            making you less vulnerable to illness. The immune system is inhibited during the luteal phase of
            your cycle (after ovulation) and is less likely to react to any invading infections. As previously
            stated, this is related to changes in testosterone levels as well as growing progesterone levels.
            Depending on the ailment, persons with chronic illnesses may discover that their symptoms
            improve during the luteal period.

            Finally, estrogen levels remain low during the menstruation phase of your cycle, as well as in the
            days preceding up to it. Strangely, menstruation is frequently related to an increase in
            inflammation, though the reason for this is unknown. As inflammatory responses return to
            normal, people with chronic problems may suffer worse symptoms again.

            Recovery Of Menstruation And Fertility Post Transplantation

            Divya Bhatia


            Public transplantation measurements show that the liver beneficiaries are around 75%individuals of regenerative age. With the proceeded with progress and increment inside the levelof transfers performed, issues in regards to ripeness are progressively apropos. Around half ofthe young ladies with end-stage infection have Amenorrhea or can’t consider because ofunexpected issues and liver transplantation can reestablish charisma and richness. 


            Amenorrhea may perhaps be a common clinical issue with an illness that propels enough to require liver transplantation. Ladies with anemia are bound to continue the monthly cycle after transplantationand young ladies not wishing to encourage pregnancy should utilize contraception.For the most part, individuals getting liver transfers ought to be urged to utilize boundarystrategies during the essential year present transfer on hack back the opportunity of apoplexy andphysically communicated illnesses in individuals that are at risk. Normally, hormonalcontraception is kept away from inside the primary year present transfer principally due to thesereasons. Oral contraceptives are viewed as unseemly after the subsequent year and can be keptaway from by ladies with a background marked by Budd-Chiari or hypercoagulability.Is pregnancy safe after transplantation?


            Information from the NTPR (U.S National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry) has provideddetails regarding 137 pregnancies from 31 focuses. Over two-thirds of such pregnancies resultedin live births with great maternal and fetal results inside the larger part. A new enormous seriesfrom King’s school announced the aftereffects of 71 pregnancies in 45 Women post-transfer.They too had a nativity pace of 70% with no unite misfortune or maternal passing related totransplantation. While pregnancy is thought about protected after transplantation all patientsought to be viewed as high danger. Relocate follow-up ought to be successive during and soonafter pregnancy to check great allograft capacity and remedial degrees of immunosuppression.Complications during pregnancy within the liver transplant patient. The frequency of toxemia,hypertension, and uropathy is expanded after liver transplantation. 


            The finding of toxemia inside the post-transfer setting is regularly harder because power per unitthe region now and again increments after the twentieth seven-day stretch of incubation inrelocating patients and calcineurin inhibitors increment corrosive levels, that delivers a raisedcorrosive level and a temperamental marker of toxemia. Different markers of toxemia likechanges in coursing angiogenic and antiangiogenic proteins might demonstrate accommodating.Hypertension in pregnant transfer patients requires forceful treatment. Methyldopa is thought tobe protected in pregnancy and is thought about the supported specialist for the treatment ofhypertension in pregnancy. Worthy second-line specialists incorporate consolidated α and β-adrenergic Blockers, calcium-channel blockers, α-adrenergic blockers, and thiazide diuretics.


            Menstrual function after transplantationMenstrual function and the ability to get pregnant are reestablished after liver transplantation. 44ladies who had gone through liver transplantation were surveyed for feminine capacity. Thisgathering was comprised basically of women with nonalcoholic infections. Generally speaking,the feminine cycle continued within 10 months after transplantation in 41% by 2 months, in 79%by 5 months, and in 90% by 7 months. Another investigation was held for feminine capacitypreviously, then after the fact transplantation in 31 women. Preoperative feminine capacity insidethe 17 patients more youthful than 45 years was described by the ensuing examples: amenorrheain 6, unpredictable draining in 5, and ordinary feminine capacity in 6. Ordinary femininecapacity continued after transplantation in four of six patients with amenorrhea and in three of 5with unpredictable cycles. The middle period to the resumption of the ordinary monthly cyclewas two months (range, 1 to 28). Of the ladies evaluated 2 months to 5 years aftertransplantation, five had compromised liver capacity (dismissal) at the hour of uterine dying. Theagents noticed that progestational treatment was utilized for less than 40% of patients in whom ithad been suggested. They presumed that, on the possibility of realistic data, progesterone isn’thepatotoxic and is a reasonable treatment for intense vaginal draining in liver transferbeneficiaries.


            ConclusionNo proper rules exist for pregnancy in liver transfer beneficiaries, anyway a new agreementmeeting presumed that pregnancy is normally protected after the essential year as long as therewas no set of experiences of dismissal during the first year and allograft work is steady. Patientswishing to imagine ought to be urged to embrace and do as such, ideally more than 1-2 yearsafter transplantation if their allograft is working great which they're clinically steady. At now therisk of dismissal is frequently low.If the patient becomes pregnant inside the essential a year one can in any case anticipate a highlikelihood of a legit result. Last, fruitful pregnancy after liver transplantation is expected, theadministration of the patient should be careful and multidisciplinary in its methodology so onaffirm the preeminent compelling conceivable result for both Mother and youngster.

              The Contribution Of Artificial Intelligence To Menstruation

              Chanchal Mohanty

              Artificial intelligence or AI helps people in many ways these days. This is the intelligence
              demonstrated by machines rather than humans. Thus, this could help in preventing many
              mistakes and errors done by people. Artificial intelligence is not just used in bigger projects but
              also used in day-to-day lives nowadays.

              Hence, AIs have been included in a major day-to-day life process that is menstruation. Artificial
              intelligence is usually used for tracking the menstrual cycle or ovulation cycle.
              These infused menstrual trackers can be found in the form of an app. Such startups help in
              identifying any disorder. Also, detection of the ovulation cycle can help in conception.
              These are used by women or genders menstruating, use this on a large scale nowadays and this
              helps in maintaining the proper cycle of menstruation or detecting any defects.

              Artificial intelligence has accomplished success in many medical health care areas like
              radiotherapy, chemotherapy, etc. The most beneficial effect of having artificial intelligence is
              that it can be used as a personalized educator and informer.
              This application can be used for educating women and other people who are menstruating about
              periods. In countries like India where menstruation is taboo, the sources for explaining the
              defects disorders of periods are very few.

              One reason can be that such countries usually have fewer gynecologists, and hence the treatment
              is also very unusual. Gynecologists play a major role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for a
              woman in her menstruation process till her menopause. That’s the major part which lacks and
              genders menstruating have to face a lot of consequences for the same.
              Now the condition in rural areas is even worse. Rural areas have less connectivity and fewer
              healthcare facilities which act as a catalyst in lacking awareness about menstruation disorders,
              their consequences, etc.

              Such things lead to a lot of unwanted pregnancies before the age of conception, which leads to an
              imbalanced healthy lifestyle of a menstruating person. So here artificial intelligence helps in
              blocking these problems faced by a menstruating person in some ways.
              Artificial Intelligence can be used as a personalized teacher or a guide that can help any person
              in understanding the process of menstruation, its disorders, its defects, its side effects and women
              and adolescent girls and other gender menstruating.
              This personalized teacher can help in explaining to everyone about menstruation and aspects
              related to it. This can also help in the country’s economy and GDP as it can have a greater effect
              on the population which usually happens due to unwanted pregnancies.

              Menstrual Madness

              Adeeba Shaikh

              An era where menstruation was considered as a dangerous disease that caused madness was the
              An era where menstruation was considered as a dangerous disease that caused madness was the Victorian era and a topic on which even the most open minded and progressive Victorians like
              Darwin and Florence Nightingale have remained silent was menstruation. Though there had been
              medical advancements, superstitions dominated the understanding of women on menstrual health
              and reproductive systems. 

              The extent of misconception was as such that women were believed to bleed from most parts of their body including the nose, breasts, lungs, ears, navel and even the eyes. The fact that is even more baffling is that such misconceptions were even held by the physicians of the Victorian era. One such physicians exaggerated mood swings during periods by explaining that the tongue trembles and falters that leads to incoherently speaking and women during their periods may scream, roar, wail or have other extreme emotions. 

              Between the years 1784-1994 about 80 women were admitted at the Bethlam hospital who had symptoms of nausea, purging, and physical restriction shortly after their periods ended. The severity of the madness was such that apparently Dr. Althaus wrote that hysterical attacks were common during
              their lady days and agreeingly Dr Jacobi remarked that a woman during her periods is more
              vulnerable to commit outrageous acts compared to men directing attention to how Victorian
              people believed menstrual madness to women having violent tendencies to an extent to which
              they are considered as potential threats. Considering how unstable women were the treatments
              the Victorian physicians came up with were most of the times heavy sedatives. 

              The anti- feminists like James MacGrigor Allen in 1869 expressed his opinions to the Anthropological
              Society of London by termed women as unfit for doing heavy physical and mental labour and
              since he believed that women are subjected to depression during their monthly cycle, they shall
              be disqualified for thought and action. He also generalized all the misconducts of women to this
              cause and openly admitted to the false fact that men always have surpassed women in intellectual
              labor and always will. He further explained that women menstruating was a ‘scientific’ evidence
              that men and women weren’t equals and that nature deemed them to a different role. 

              Not just that, menstruation proved to be enough reason for women to be prejudiced and requiring
              supervision at all times. To a more positive note, proving that menstrual incapacity was an
              absolute misconception Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi along with Clelia Duel Mosche and Leta Stetter
              whose essay titled ‘The question of rest for women during menstruation’ had won Boylston Prize
              at Harvard University. Unfortunately, though the world has progressed through era after era, yet
              even in the modern world, we fail to be comfortable being vocal about the subject.

              No, Your Vagina Can’t Get Loose, And Here’s Why!

              Raz Dhar


              A Loose vagina is a myth. Age and accouchement can be a reason for your vagina to lose some of this elasticity naturally, but this won't cause your vagina to be loose permanently. In time, your vagina will recover quickly and easily to its original form. You shouldn't get influenced by various myths and misconceptions about vaginas. You can't have a loose vagina due to excessive sex as well because nothing like that exists. Vagina has an elastic skin type that won't get loose. Example, we all know that vagina expands itself to allow tampons, sex, accouchement, sex devices, and birth control devices to enter. The vagina consists of various muscles that can tighten up or expand/relax based on the circumstances. When you are completely turned on, your pelvic muscle becomes relaxed and vice versa. Accouchement is a major cause for your pelvic floor muscle not have enough strength. The other reasons may consist of menopause, traumatic injuries, and cervical cancer. Still, if you are concerned about the condition of your vagina or you are sensing something strange, you should consult your doctor. But try not to worry about it too much, because a loose vagina due to sex is not even a thing. So it’s just the vaginal muscles that make the vagina seem tight or less tight. But there's nothing to worry about because it can snap back to its original form very easily. This vagina concept is just a societal myth. Have you ever noticed that this kind of so-called pieces of advice are only given to women having multiple partners and not to women with only one partner! A tight vagina isn';t necessarily good If you think that a tight vagina is a solution to all your problems then you might need to think twice. A vagina may feel loose or too tight when there's a lack of lubrication to increase its elasticity during sexual intercourse. Besides being uncomfortable or causing insecurity to the woman, the lack of lubrication can also mean that your partner is: 1. Your partner is uncomfortable. 2. Isn't as interested/ turned on as you are3. Is distracted 4. Is dealing with some sort of mental condition. 5. Is going through some hormonal changes. All these things as well as some other kinds of reasons may also be responsible for a woman’s vagina to feel either loose, or too tight.

              Septate Uterus

              Krisha Bhatia

              A septate uterus is a condition that involves the deformity of a person’s uterus. It takes place
              during fetal development before birth. A membrane called the septum divides the inner portion
              of the uterus in the middle, partially or completely. The septum is a fibrous and muscular band of
              tissue that can be either thick or thin. A septate uterus is the most common type of abnormal
              uterine development. Some people may not even realize that they have a septate uterus, even
              during pregnancy and childbirth.

              While the condition usually does not affect a person’s menstrual cycle, sexual pleasures, or
              fertility, a septate (or partial septate) can have an impact on the endometrial lining (or surface
              area) of the uterus which may result in heavier bleeding. It may also affect the outcome of
              pregnancy if one decides to have children. The risk of miscarriage is significantly higher, and a
              person with a septate uterus can also have recurrent miscarriages. The rate of miscarriage in the
              general population is about 10-20% in people who know they are pregnant. The estimated rate of
              miscarriage amongst people with septate uteri is between 20-25%. Some research also shows it
              may be as high as 40%. 

              Pregnancies occurring within a uterus with any abnormalities can
              increase the risk for premature labor, breech positions, C-section delivery, and bleeding
              complications post-delivery. Other than a miscarriage or recurrent miscarriages, symptoms of a
              septate uterus range from minimal to none. It is often only diagnosed while investigating the
              cause of miscarriages. Doctors prefer using various imaging methods to diagnose the septate
              uterus. For example- MRI, 2D or 3D ultrasound, and hysteroscopy as the septum can be difficult
              to see visually. Luckily, a septate uterus may be treated with a surgery called metroplasty.
              Usually, the procedure is carried out with a hysteroscopy. The hysteroscopic procedure allows
              for treatment to be done within the uterus without requiring any outer abdominal incisions. 

              After surgery, one’s chances of a healthy pregnancy increase significantly, and people who are not able
              to get pregnant may be able to get pregnant after this procedure. Not everyone needs to be treated. If one does not wish to have children, treating the condition is not required as it does not pose a health risk by itself. However, if a person with a septate uterus wishes to have children, they may choose to have surgery. The main complication of a septate uterus is the increased risk of miscarriage and recurrent miscarriages, and it may be comforting to know that through this minimally invasive procedure, a person may see improved reproductive outcomes.

              Key To A Healthy Vagina

              Cindy

              A vagina is otherwise called the birth canal for individuals who bear youngsters. The vagina
              interfaces with the cervix and, through that, the uterus. Vaginal wellbeing is a significant piece of
              a lady's general wellbeing. Vaginal issues can influence your fertility, longing for sex, and
              capacity to arrive at a climax. Progressing vaginal medical problems can likewise cause pressure
              or relationship issues and affect your confidence.

              Different components can influence the wellbeing of your vagina, including:
              1. Unprotected Sex
              2. Conditions such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease, etc. 
              3. Barrier contraceptives, like condoms, diaphragm, and related spermicide, can cause
              vaginal irritation
              4. Changes in your hormonal levels can influence your vaginal wellbeing

              Ways on how to maintain a healthy vagina:
              1. On the off chance that you actually need to clean your vagina and vulva, try to utilize non-
              scented items and just wash the labia majora. Rebalance Personal Moisturizing and Cleansing
              Wipes by Good Clean Love are an incredible method to eliminate overabundance of sweat or
              feel a little cleaner without influencing the normal pH of your vagina. They likewise have a
              saturating wash that is extraordinary for those individual spots.
              2. Use condoms or keep a commonly monogamous relationship with your partner who's liberated
              from sexually communicated diseases. In the event that you use sex toys, clean them after each
              utilization. Vaccines can shield you from HPV, the infection-related with cervical malignant
              growth, just as hepatitis B — a genuine liver contamination that can spread through sexual
              contact.
              3. Kegel activities can assist with conditioning your pelvic floor muscles in the event that you have
              prolapse, leaking of urine, or shortcoming of the pelvic floor. Constant liquor misuse can
              debilitate sexual capacity. Nicotine may repress sexual excitement. Substance misuse may
              likewise cause poor physical and emotional wellness, which can influence sexual capacity.
              4. Breathable dresses and clothing satisfy vaginas. Cotton clothing is extraordinary. It has
              dampness-wicking properties to restrict the measure of wetness that can advance bacterial
              development. Changing out of wet apparel rapidly can assist with restricting issues, too. After
              the bowel movements, wipe from front to back to keep away from bacterial contamination of the
              vagina and to bring down the danger of bladder disease. Change menstruation pads and tampons
              consistently during your period.
              5. What you eat can influence your vaginal wellbeing. Food varieties that are wealthy in
              antioxidants and probiotics can assist with adjusting vaginal pH, restrain diseases, and
              straightforwardness PMS. Leafy foods are loaded with antioxidants. You can discover probiotics
              in fermented food sources like yogurt, sauerkraut, and tempeh.
              6. Stay current with wellbeing screenings, and see your gynecologist for routine consideration.
              Regular screenings help you keep your reproductive wellbeing in check. A successive visit to a
              gynecologist assists you with understanding your vaginal wellbeing well.

              Pelvic Exam Coming Up? Here’s Everything You Need To know!

              Alexandra Stone

              As a woman, there are certain precautions that are necessary to take to ensure everything is perfectly fine. These include breast exams, skin exams, and yes even pelvic exams! Although not the most comfortable of exams, this one is quite essential to confirm your health. If you have one coming up or want to know more about them, Here's everything you might need to know!
              1. What is a pelvic exam? A pelvic exam is the physical examination of both the external and internal female pelvicorgans. It is often used by gynecologists to assess and treat any symptoms that may be affectingthe female reproductive and urinary tract.


              2. What is the procedure for a pelvic exam?Basically what will occur is your doctor will insert two lubricated, gloved fingers intoyour vagina with one hand, while the other hand presses gently on the outside of your lowerabdomen. During this part of the exam, your doctor will check the size and shape of your uterusand ovaries, taking note of any tender areas or unusual bumps or growths to know what is or isn'tnormal.


              3. Does it hurt? The burning question is, do these exams hurt? The simple answer is usually not. Theexam is quite simple and only takes a few minutes. You may feel a little uncomfortable andpossibly embarrassed but that's normal. Some women do say that it causes a bit of discomfortbecause of the pressure but the best way to prevent that is relaxing the muscles in that area.


              4. How should I properly prepare for this exam?Two days prior to this exam avoid any kind of intercourse, vaginal creams, and medicineas these may obscure abnormal cells. Other than that it's fairly simple and continues to cleanregularly, just as you would normally do.


              5. Should I shave before the exam?This is completely up to you. If you are one to shave more than others then do so if that'swhat you're comfortable with. Try to stick to your normal routine, so if you don’t shave then itreally isn’t necessary to do so for this exam.


              6. When should I get my first exam?This question varies for everyone. If you're unsure, bring it up the next time you visit yourdoctor. The recommended age to begin these exams is 21 for healthy women. But someone whois experiencing abnormal symptoms may be advised to have one earlier.


              7. Can you be sedated for your pelvic exam?Technically, yes you can be sedated to get a pelvic exam and Pap smear. This practice isnot common, however, it is only done when there is suspected clinical concern.Hope this Q&A helped answer a few of your questions/concerns and be sure to speak with alicensed medical professional if you need more answers!

                Vaginal Hair Is Good

                Chanchal

                Vaginal hair or pubic hair is a sign of maturity when you Hit puberty. Nowadays, bare skin and shaved skin have become a part of everyone's life. Women usually prefer shaving off their vaginal hair instead of letting them grow.

                A lot of people may not know this, but in truth, vaginal hair has many purposes. There are
                gynecological reports that suggest how keeping vaginal hair can be helpful and beneficial one
                way or another.

                Some of the purposes are as mentioned below:
                1. It provides protection against friction which can lead to skin irritation over the sensitive area.
                Skin irritation caused by excessive skin-to-skin irritation can cause rashes, especially around the
                inner thigh. Vaginal hair thus helps in reducing this friction.
                2. Vaginal hair also helps in reducing the Sweat produced around the vagina. Excessive sweat
                around the vagina can cause skin irritation, redness, and rashes. Vaginal hair helps in protecting
                the genitals from irritation.
                3. The most important element to which vaginal hair can benefit you, is that it helps in blocking
                the vagina from several infections, such as:
                  a. Sexually transmitted infections
                  b. Urinary tract infections
                  c. Yeast-related infections
                Hence, not having vaginal hair may induce these infections at a higher rate.
                4. It helps to regulate local body temperature around the genitals which helps in proper blood
                circulation keeping the genitals warm. This helps in proper sexual arousal.
                5. Keeping vaginal hair will reduce irritation and avoid infection or disease-like conditions.
                It is a myth that removing vaginal hair is more hygienic. But the truth is removing vaginal hair is
                not more hygienic or doesn't help in hygiene anyway. Thus, vaginal hair plays an important role
                in maintaining all the above points.
                But the decision on how to take care of your body is ultimately yours to decide... If you decide to
                remove your vaginal hair, then you do you! But just be sure that while cleaning the area, you
                should use sterilized razors, and always avoid using old ones!
                Blades that do not cause skin irritation and infection and cuts should be indeed be preferred. You
                can always consult your gynecologist or practitioner for this practice.

                Can You Get Drunk By Using An Alcohol-Soaked Tampon?

                Adeeba Shaikh


                Reading the heading, the first couple of questions that pop up in the head are, ‘Is it even possibleto insert an alcohol-soaked tampon since tampons expand with exposure to any liquid?’ and ‘Why would anyone do that?’ Well, to answer the first question, most of the time no, since it may be extremely difficult and painful, but even if one succeeds in inserting it, it causes much more damage than its so-called perks. As for answering the second question, theoretically, there are a few reasons as to why that would be considered.

                One reason being in order to avoid consuming alcohol orally and its bitter taste or having the alcohol breath and the second, yet to experience the high. Another reason being that through this way, the intoxication occurs at a faster rate. Since the alcohol is absorbed through a mucous membrane, it directly enters the bloodstream. This method opens the way for a more vigorous intoxication since the alcohol does not undergo any dilution by the stomach and liver. The risk of alcohol poisoning is high in this method since the alcohol cannot be vomited as it is not consumed through the stomach and there is no other way to eliminate the alcohol from the bloodstream. It is also believed that by consuming alcohol through a tampon there is a higher chance to pass the Breathalyzer test that measures the blood alcohol count of a person.

                Does an alcohol-soaked tampon actually get you drunk or is it just a myth? Quite literally there are no documented cases of this and judging the consequences that follow it is highly unlikely no studies would have been conducted on actual cases. Additionally, the difficulty of inserting an alcohol-soaked tampon and the fact that even a super tampon is unable to retain enough alcohol to get one to a high, makes it furthermore impossible to work as desired.

                Apart from the high risk of alcohol poisoning, another risk is the damaging of genitals. The vagina and anus of a woman possess a thin and fragile mucous membrane and an acidic medium that alcohol is will bring burns and could damage your mucous membrane even leading to permanent damage. Even though, there are no documented cases of alcohol-soaked tampons there have been cases of alcohol enema, a practice in which alcohol is poured into the colon via a thin tube from the rectum. Since many times, it is easy to lose track of alcohol consumption in this case, and may lead to fatalities in extreme cases. When the person experiences cramping, burns in the anal or rectal region, rectal bleedings, or tenesmus, it is highly advised to rush the person to a hospital.

                Considering its ill effects, and the unlikely possibility of working in the desired way, it is highly recommended to not indulge in the practice of using alcohol-soaked tampons and seek help when experiencing any sort of symptom or discomfort.

                What Is The Clitoris?

                By: Raz

                Firstly let’s answer the question “what is the clitoris?”

                The clitoris is the pleasure center for people with vaginas it doesn’t have any major role in reproduction. It is said that Orgasm comes mostly because of the clitoris. Clitoris is known as theprimary source of sexual pleasure.

                The location of the clitoris: Clitoris is known as one of the most sensitive erogenous zones (areas of the body that excites sexual response). Clitoris is a part of vulva. The vagina is the tube that connects the vulva and cervix.

                Now let’s get to know the parts of the clitoris. Clitoris is composed of multiple parts such as:

                1. The glans

                2. The clitoral body and

                3. The paired crura and vestibular bulbs.

                The role played by the clitoris: the main role of the clitoris is in sexual pleasure. In some females, the clitoris becomes enlarged during sexual activity making it more reactive. Clitoris isalso responsible for orgasm in females.

                5 facts about the clitoris that you should know:

                1. Clitoris is bigger than you think: from outside the bit of the clitoris that you can see might

                seem like the size of a pea but in reality, the clitoris is almost 5 inches!

                2. The clitoris grows: just like the penis the clitoris also swells and becomes erect when evoked.

                3. It’s not only humans who have clitoris: A study conducted shows that there are some major

                similarities between human and dolphin clitoris and just like for humans its main role is for

                pleasure.

                4. Clitoris is a natural painkiller: if you are someone who faces severe period cramps orgasm is a

                natural way to eliminate discomfort. So this makes it completely Normal to have sex while on

                periods.

                5. The clitoris can be formed like a penis (vice versa): In some forms of surgeries the clitoris can

                be formed like a penis and in other cases, the size of the penis can be reduced through surgery to

                form a clitoris.

                The clitoris and the penis resemble in structure and they also originate from the same

                development tissue. Clitoris is also known as the female penis. In humans and other mammals, the clitoris develops from an outgrowth in the embryo known as the genital tubercle.

                  If You’re Feeling Nervous About Giving Birth, Know This! 

                  By: Krisha Bhatia

                  Childbirth is a life-changing event in many ways, and being anxious about giving birth is completely normal. It may feel like anything could go wrong, and even though you are worried about the baby, you are also worried about the pain and how you’re going to deal with it. Maybe everything has gone as planned, but you’re still nervous, or maybe things have been hard and you’re feeling extremely uncertain. We want you to know that we see you and hear you, and what you’re feeling is valid, and would like to share a few things with you. 

                  It’s okay to feel nervous, overwhelmed, excited, unsure, or a tangled web of emotions. If you can, try to acknowledge your feelings and not push them away- even if it feels messy. Feeling nervous doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. If the nervousness is growing into fear, or taking over a large part of your mental health, you can talk to a therapist about it. Trusting your body to tell you what it needs is paramount. This isn’t from the perspective of ‘sitting back, letting your body take over and everything will be perfect, because your body may need help, whether it’s in the form of a C-section, epidural, or other such methods. Medication and epidurals have a place in the process, and if you feel like you need them, that’s okay. Although Mother Nature is the ultimate boss here, you hold more control than you think. 

                  If you are giving birth in a birth center or hospital, never hesitate to ask for what you want. Ask if you feel like getting out of your bed and walking around, as long as you stay hooked up to the monitor. You have every right to, and you may be surprised how often your needs will be met. Immersing yourself in a positive birth culture by reading birth stories, journaling your thoughts, reading books about childbirth, and talking to a qualified midwife you trust are some more ways one can reduce the nerves surrounding childbirth. 

                  In the end, this is your body, and you should do what you feel like to feel better about yourself and the process. Take a class, go to a therapist, write in your journal, do what you need to do. Childbirth looks different for every individual, and it is imperative to cater to your needs in a way that is comfortable for you. You’ve got this. 

                  Articles!

                  Cindy Fernandes

                  Fibroids

                  Fibroids, also known as myomas are compact slow growing tumors that are a combination made from smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissues which develop from the uterine muscles. They are benign tumors,  meaning that they are non-cancerous, and the chances of fibroids being cancerous estimates to less than 1%. Leiomyosarcomas refer to cancerous fibroids; these types of fibroids grow quickly and can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body if left untreated.

                  Learn more

                  Chanchal

                  Depression during periods

                  Feeling depressed during the menstrual cycle is common. Still, this condition is not taken seriously and awareness regarding this issue is hardly observed. Depression and other moods during periods is however due to rising and falling of sex hormonal levels i.e; estrogen and progesterone. This affects our neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine leading to anxiety, irritation, insomnia, depression, etc.

                  Learn more

                  Kristlyn

                  Cyclic Progesterone Therapy

                  Progesterone and Estrogen is the two most important hormones of a women’s body, usually we hear about estrogen. When you go to the doctor they may prescribe progesterone or a synthetic called  medroxy progesterone  to control heavy flow during periods, prevent irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair, or treat low bone density, sleep problems, heavy flow or night sweats. 

                  Learn more

                  Cyclic Progesterone Therapy

                  Krislyn

                  Progesterone and Estrogen is the two most important hormones of a women’s body, usually we hear about estrogen. When you go to the doctor they may prescribe progesterone or a synthetic called  medroxy progesterone  to control heavy flow during periods, prevent irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair, or treat low bone density, sleep problems, heavy flow or night sweats. Cyclic progesterone therapy also helps women achieve pregnancy. Women that have androgenic PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) experience unpredictable oligomenorrhea and are at increased risk for endometrial cancer. Oral micronized progesterone (OMP) given regularly (14 days/cycle or 4 weeks), in doses (300 mg at night time) as a “luteal phase replacement” therapy would be likely to effectively treat both. 

                  There are side effects if you take too much progesterone such as headaches, coughing,depression, fatigue, confusion, difficulty breathing etc. So it’s important to take the right doses at the right time. Similarly there are effects if the progesterone levels in your body are low for example infertility, mood changes, hot flashes, weight gain etc. 

                  The reason why progesterone is taken at night time is that it helps with menopause-related sleep problems. One of the most troubling and irritating symptoms of menopause is delayed or interrupted sleep. Researchers found out that by taking 300 mg of progesterone daily at bedtime improved the quality of deep sleep. Progesterone can delay your period, so a pregnancy test must be performed. If the test is positive the medications will continue until around the 10th week of pregnancy. If the pregnancy test is negative, the medication should be stopped, and the next period will occur in 2–7 days. 

                  Women take oral progesterone for inducing periods; and for treating abnormal uterinebleeding which is linked with hormonal imbalance, and severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Progesterone is also used with the hormone estrogen as part of hormone replacement therapy. If estrogen is given without progesterone, estrogen increases the risk of uterine cancer. Progesterone is used to ease withdrawal symptoms when certain drugs are discontinued. The progesterone prescription products which have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are safe for most people when used by mouth, applied to the skin and even applied into vagina. However, progesterone can cause many side effects including stomach upset, changes in appetite, weight gain, fluid retention and swelling , fatigue, acne, drowsiness or insomnia, allergic skin rashes, hives, fever, headache, depression, breast discomfort or enlargement, PMS like symptoms, altered menstrual cycles, irregular bleeding, and other side effects. Some warnings to take progesterone are that is you have an arterial or liver disease do not use progesterone as it might make it worse also if you have undiagnosed vaginal bleeding or Breast cancer Avoid use unless you are directed to do so by your healthcare provider.

                  Polycystic ovary syndrome

                  Divya Bhatia

                  Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health issue among women of child bearing
                  ages. It affects about 10% (5million) of women world wide and around 70% women with it are
                  not diagnosed. It is caused due to an imbalance in reproductive hormones, due to excess
                  production of androgens(male hormones) which is usually present in small amounts but in some
                  cases the body does not produce enough hormones for ovulation. It affects the ovaries by
                  forming cysts (small fluid filled sacs) in the ovaries. It’s origin is undetermined.
                  Some people start seeing symptoms around time of their menarche while others discover it when
                  they are either gaining too much weight or are having trouble getting pregnant. Some common
                  symptoms are:-
                  -Irregular periods: lack of ovulation prevents the uterine wall from shedding.
                  -Heavy bleeding: since the lining of the team uterine wall is not shedding periodically, the
                  wall before thicker leading to a heavy flow.
                  -Hair growth: growth of hair in unwanted places like the face, back, belly and chest. This
                  is called hirsutism and is caused due to excess androgens.
                  -Acne: again due to excess androgen the skin becomes oily and the areas on face, chest
                  and upper back have breakouts.
                  -Weight gain: this is because the body of people suffering from PCOS becomes insulin
                  resistant, that mean that the body is not able to use insulin up to its potential which
                  increases the sugar levels in the blood.
                  -Darkening of skin: dark patches of skin are on the body like the creases of neck, groin
                  and under the breasts.
                  -Skin tags: small excess flaps of skin in armpits or neck area
                  Due to this there are many negative affects on the body, like:
                  -Infertility: due to lack of ovulation fertility becomes harder.
                  -Obesity, high blood pressure, increase in sugar levels: this is due to the insulin resistance
                  in the body.
                  -Sleep apnea: this usually effects people who are overweight.
                  -Endometrial cancer: as the uterine wall thickens due to irregular periods which increases
                  the risk of cancer
                  -Depression: due to hormonal imbalance.
                  -Pelvic pain.
                  There is no known cure for PCOS but it’s symptoms can be treated. The symptoms can be
                  treated at home or by taking medication prescribed by your doctor.
                  -Weight loss exercises: losing 5-10% of your body weight can help regulate menstrual
                  cycle and improves symptoms by lowering the production of insulin.
                  -Dietary changes: adopting a diet with less carbohydrates can help reduce weight.
                  -Birth control: it helps balancing hormones. (To be taken if deciding to not get pregnant.)
                  -Metformin: a drug used by people suffering type-2 diabetes, helps lower insulin levels. 
                  -Clomiphene: it’s a drug used to induce ovulation hence people who want to get pregnant
                  use this drug.
                  Since people with PCOS suffer through so much there should be schemes that encourage people
                  to go get it checked every once in a while.

                  Fibroids

                  Cindy

                  Fibroids, also known as myomas are compact slow growing tumors that are a combination made from smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissues which develop from the uterine muscles. They are benign tumors,  meaning that they are non-cancerous, and the chances of fibroids being cancerous estimates to less than 1%.  Leiomyosarcomas refer to cancerous fibroids; these types of fibroids grow quickly and can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body if left untreated. They vary in sizes ranging from a being as small as a peppercorn to as large as a soccer ball. Nearly 50% to 70% of women develop this condition during their lifetime and 80% of women during their child bearing years. Fibroids are also known by the following names: Leiomyomas, myomas, uterine myomas, fibromas. 

                  Fibroids can occur at a variety of places in the uterus, a fibroid embedded in the thick muscle part of the uterus is referred to as intramural fibroids. Those present inside the endometrium of the uterus are called submucosal fibroid. If it grows on the surface of the uterus it’s known as a subserosal fibroid. Subserosal fibroids do not cause any symptoms unless they become very large which results in pressured symptoms like abdominal masses. The most common type of fibroids is the intramural fibroids that may grow larger and stretch your womb. Pedunculated fibroids are those which are just attached to the uterus by a stalk like structure. Fibroids can exist as a single tumor or as multiple tumors in the uterus. The aetiology of fibroids is unknown. Nonetheless, researchers have gathered reasons for this conditions which are; family or genetic history, fibroids are stimulated by two hormones namely progesterone and oestrogen which cause the growth of fibroids during the reproductive years. Fibroids are highly likely to shrink once a woman enters the menopausal phase, as oestrogen levels decline. Certain ethnic groups prevail having increased risk of fibroids, particularly Africans. 

                  Fibroids can be asymptomatic or symptomatic; where the latter entails of heavy and prolonged menstrual cycles, severe pelvic or back pain, frequent urination, increased menstrual cramping or heavy bleeding during or between your periods that includes of blood clots. The treatment of fibroids can be done through home remedies, acupuncture, yoga, massage, Gui Zhi Fu Ling Tang (GFLT) or even dietary changes that are opting for greens and protein rich foods rather than high calorie food and meats. Medications such as Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, such as leuprolide (Lupron), make estrogen and progesterone levels drop. This will eventually stop menstruation and shrink fibroids. Fibroids can be treated surgically as well through procedures of Myomectomy and Hysterectomy. Endometrial Ablation, Myolysis, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) or Uterine Artery Embolization are other ways of treatment. Fibroids per se don’t cause infertility unless they pose as an obstruction to the fallopian tube which fails fertilization. They don’t harm the baby when pregnant. There are fibroids that are large and grow as the pregnancy advances. If it develops too large they can degenerate causing pain and uterine contractions which requires immediate medical attention. 

                  Fibroids can be diagnosed through ultrasound, biopsy and MRI. It isn’t something to be embarrassed or ashamed of through medical service and attention it can be treated. Regardless of fibroids being small or large seek medical consideration. Make sure to visit your gynecologist if you experience unease and if possible get pelvic scans done  once in a while.

                  Depression during periods

                  Chanchal

                  Feeling depressed during the menstrual cycle is common. Still, this condition is not taken seriously and awareness regarding this issue is hardly observed. Depression and other moods during periods is however due to rising and falling of sex hormonal levels i.e; estrogen and progesterone. This affects our neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine leading to anxiety, irritation, insomnia, depression, etc. Many girls have experienced this a lot many times and could sense their depression and fluctuations after the menstrual cycle ends. This is then ignored and related to just some other kind of mood swings. But, depression is considered to be one the most severe symptoms of periods which should be treated by helping yourself or looking out for a doctor.

                  Different bodies have different moods and hence different outcomes. In general, some things which can help are dietary and lifestyle changes like exercising regularly, meditation, yoga,  getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and taking calcium supplements. Period tracking apps or journals to note down your moods and their cycles could be of great help.

                  Choosing and creating a better yet positive environment for yourself, avoiding demotivational and unsupportive people at that time, whichever activity motivates you, helps in concentrating over better things, all these small efforts can also help you out dealing with depression during periods.

                    Menopause

                    Krislyn Koshy

                    Menopause is the time when a woman’s period stops, it marks the end of her menstrual cycle. It usually occurs after the age of 45 and a woman has reached the menopause stage when she hasn’t gotten her period for one year. During menopause the ovaries stops producing hormones like progesterone and estrogen. 

                    Physical symptoms like hot flashes, and emotional symptoms of menopause may disrupt sleep,
                    lower energy or affect emotional health. There are many different treatment options available,
                    from lifestyle adjustments to hormone therapy. Some perimenopause (months or years leading
                    up to menopause) symptoms are having irregular periods, hot flashes as well as chills which
                    leads to sleep problems, mood changes/swings, weight gain and slowed metabolism, thinning of
                    hair and dry skin etc.
                    Reproductive hormones reduces with ageing- As you approach your mid to late 30s, the ovaries
                    start producing less estrogen and progesterone and fertility declines. During 40s, the menstrual
                    periods may become longer or shorter, heavier or lighter, and more or less frequent, until
                    eventually by age 51 (give or take) your ovaries stop releasing eggs, and you have no more
                    periods indicating menopause.
                    About 1% of women begin menopause before the age of 40, which is called premature
                    menopause or primary ovarian insufficiency. A new blood test known as the PicoAMH Elisa
                    diagnostic test was approved by the Food and Drug Administration . This test is used to check
                    whether a woman has entered menopause or is getting close to entering her menopause period.
                    This test can be helpful to women who show symptoms of perimenopause, which can also have
                    adverse health impacts. Early menopause is associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis , heart
                    disease, cognitive changes, vaginal changes and mood changes.
                    Some home remedies to help with menopause symptoms are to dress comfortably and in cool
                    cotton clothes to help with the heat flashes in the middle of the night, you can sleep on a
                    waterproof sheet if you have night sweats to protect your mattress. Taking calcium, vitamin D,
                    and magnesium supplements helps to reduce the risk for osteoporosis and it also improves
                    energy levels and sleep. Talking to a therapist or psychologist about your feelings of depression,
                    anxiety, sadness, isolation, insomnia, and identity changes helps a lot. You should also try
                    talking to your family members, loved ones, or friends about feelings of anxiety, mood changes,
                    or depression so that they know your needs, this would help improve your mental health
                    drastically and you can see changes in your mood as you become calmer and happier.

                    Toxic Shock Syndrome

                    Chanchal Mohanty

                    Toxic shock syndrome is a sudden, potentially fatal condition. It is caused by the release of toxins from an overgrowth of bacteria called staphylococcus aureus, or staph, which is found in many women's bodies. Toxic shock syndrome affects menstruating women, especially those who use super-absorbent tampons. The body responds with a sharp drop in blood pressure that deprives organs of oxygen. Women who have their period (are menstruating) are most likely to get TSS, as it is thought to be associated with tampon use. The underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, but one theory is that the bacteria naturally present in the vagina can over-grow in the presence of a blood-soaked tampon. However, one third of women who get TSS when they have their period are found to have no causative bacteria in their vaginas. Toxic Shock Syndrome Symptoms:

                    ● A high fever that spikes suddenly.

                    ● Low blood pressure.

                    ● Throwing up or frequent, watery stools.

                    ● A rash that looks like a sunburn, especially on your palms and bottoms of your feet

                    ● Confusion

                    ● Muscle aches

                    ● Red eyes, mouth, and throat

                    ● Headache

                    TSS and risks of tampon use It is the toxin made by the bacteria that causes TSS, rather than the actual presence of the bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is a common type of bacterium that lives on the skin and inside the nose. In most cases it is harmless, but it can cause a wide range of infections if it enters the bloodstream. For TSS to occur, these particular types of bacteria must first over-grow and make large amounts of the TSS toxin, which then enters the bloodstream. How use of tampons may lead to TSS?

                    ● Tampons can increase the risk of TSS in two ways, including:

                    ● Tampons (especially super-absorbent varieties) that are left in the vagina for a long time may encourage the bacteria to grow.

                    ● Tampons can stick to the vaginal walls, especially when blood flow is light, causing tiny abrasions when they are removed.

                    Treatment:

                    If you think you could have toxic shock syndrome, stop using tampons immediately and go to the emergency department of your nearest hospital. Also,

                    ● medication (antibiotics) to kill the infection

                    ● fluids given through a drip (intravenously) to increase blood pressure and treat dehydration

                    ● medical treatment for any complications, such as kidney failure.

                    How to reduce the risk of TSS?

                    ● Change tampons regularly (at least every four hours).

                    ● Avoid using super-absorbent tampons.

                    ● Do not handle the tampon more than you need to.

                    ● Wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting the tampon.

                    ● Avoid applicator tampons, as the applicator may scrape the vaginal walls.

                    ● Use pads (sanitary napkins) instead of tampons overnight. 

                    ● Consider using pads or panty liners during the last day or so of your period when your flow is light.

                    Free Bleeding

                    Divya Bhatia

                    Free bleeding is when people menstruate without using any menstrual products. Some people

                    free bleed due to their financial position being low, while others choose do it to challenge the
                    stigma around periods. Many people consider it controversial because the idea of periods is
                    perceived as unhygienic hence it is to be hidden. Free bleeding has been around for centuries
                    when the use of tampons and pads was not common. It may not have been an intentional choice
                    but it did exist. There have been events that have led to spread more information about free
                    bleeding.
                    -2004: Discussion about free bleeding started when a blogger named Sarah discussed
                    about her epiphany towards blood stains. She mentioned that she sometimes didn’t use
                    menstrual products.
                    -2012: Period stain portraits were published called 'There will be blood’ by Emma
                    bystrom. This photo series featured people with period stains on their clothing with no
                    accompanying text, this sparked a debate.
                    -2014: An operation called &;operation free bleeding’ was launched via 4chan website , this
                    was an anti feminist hoax. It reminded people how much of a “taboo” talking about
                    menstruation we still have to live with. This mysogynistic stunt was outed as a hoax soon
                    after its launch. Ironically this introduced the idea of free bleeding to a larger community.
                    -2015: Drummer Kiran Gandhi free bled during a London marathon. Photos of her blood
                    stained clothing went viral and her run was covered in New York Times.
                    -2015: Period activists protested against the tampon tax. In many countries menstrual
                    products are taxed under &;luxury items’, people with low income struggle to afford them.
                    In Britain after their government declined to repeal the tax, feminists organised protests
                    and many of them wore white pants and free bled to show how it feels when a person
                    cannot afford menstrual products. During this time Rupi kaur a poet posted pictures of
                    her stain PJ’s on instagram but were taken down twice as they didn’t ‘follow community
                    guidelines
                    -2017: A trans artist, educator and period activist Cass clemmer posted a photo showing
                    period stain on their pants it was accompanied with #bleedingwhiletrans. This was to
                    highlight that periods don’t only happen to a woman.
                    There have not been particular health benefits but there are a benefits to free bleeding;
                    -Free bleeding doesn’t absorb all the fluids from the vagina, it keeps the necessary
                    bacteria and fluids where they should be unlike tampons and pads which absorb all those
                    with the period blood.
                    -People who free bleed say that they get less cramps compared to when they used tampons
                    or pads. They say it’s more comfortable too.
                    -Less production waste. In India alone around 12 billion pads are disposed per year and
                    for all these to decompose it can take around 500-800 years.
                    -Less chance of getting rashes and be affected by toxic shock syndrome.
                    -Finances can improve in a long run.
                    It is a personal choice, some people free bleed when their flow is light it depends on how
                    comfortable the person is with it.

                     Dysmenorrhea

                    Krislyn

                    Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for pain with your menstruation cycle also known as menstrual cramps which are caused by uterine contractions. There are two types of dysmenorrhea which are primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to recurrent pain, while secondary dysmenorrhea results from disorders in the reproductive system.

                    Primary dysmenorrhea is the term for common recurrent menstrual cramps that come back over and over again and aren’t due to other diseases. The pain normally begins one or two days before you get your period or when bleeding actual starts. You may feel mild to severe pain in the lower abdomen, back or thighs. This pain can typically last 12 to 72 hours, and you might have other symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and even diarrhea. 

                    Primary dysmenorrhea pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. The muscles and blood vessels of the uterus contracts because of Prostaglandis. This type usually starts soon after a girl gets her cycle, it does reduce as they get older and may also improve after birth.

                    Secondary dysmenorrhea is if you have painful periods because of a disorder or an infection in your female reproductive organs. The pain tends to get worse over time and it often lasts longer than normal menstrual cramps. For example, the pain may start a few days before a period begins and may get gradually worse as the period continues and may not stop after it ends.

                    Conditions that can cause secondary dysmenorrhea include endometriosis, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Uterine fibroids, Abnormal pregnancy (miscarriage, ectopic), Infection, tumors, or polyps in the pelvic cavity, adenomyosis, certain birth defects a woman is born with can cause pain. Conditions like Crohn’s disease and urinary disorders can flare up during a cycle and cause pain.

                    To find the cause of dysmenorrhea an ultrasound exam may be done if the pain is not relived with medication, in more severe cases the ob-gyn may suggest getting a laparoscopy (where a thin, lighted camera is inserted into the abdomen to examine the pelvic organs.

                    Some home methods to relive period pain include- light exercise like aerobic workouts such as walking, jogging, or swimming, help produce chemicals that block pain. Another way is to apply heat by taking a warm bath or placing a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen can be soothing. Yoga, sleep or meditating can also help soothe the pain.

                     Birth control methods that contain estrogen and progestin, such as the pill, patch, and the vaginal ring, can be used to treat painful periods. Another way to reduce period pain is to use birth control items that contain progestin only like the injection and the birth control implant. Acupuncture, acupressure, and nerve stimulation therapies are another method which may be useful for treating painful periods. 

                    Analyzing Cervical Cancer

                    Cindy

                    The cervix is part of the body which connects the body of the uterus to the vagina. Cervical Cancer develops when cells in a women’s cervix, which connects her uterus to her vagina, alter. This cancer may affect their cervix’s deeper tissues and spread to other parts of their body most commonly lungs, liver, bladder, vagina and the rectum. As witnessed, in most cases it is caused due to infection with Human Papillomavirus, which is fortunately preventable through vaccine. Women in the age range of 35 years to 44 years old are more exposed to this. More than 15 percent of new cases are stemming from women of 65 years of age, especially those who don’t get regular screening done. 

                    There are different types of cervical cancer. First type is referred to as Squamous cell carcinoma which is formed on the cervix lining and common in 90 percent cases. The cells of the exocervix give rise to these cancers. The second type is known as Adenocarcinoma these take place from the glandular cells. They form in cells which produce mucus. The third type is the Adenosquamous carcinoma or mixed carcinoma. These are less commonly found and possess features of Squamous cell carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma. 

                    Symptoms are as follows: pain during sexual intercourse, unusual bleeding after sexual intercourse, between period cycles, after menopause, after a pelvic exam or unusual vaginal discharge. After the spread of the cancer symptoms involve kidney failure, swollen legs, trouble while urinating, pelvic pain, bone pain, fatigue, weight loss and lack of appetite. Surgery and radiation therapy are the most common treatments for invasive cervical cancer. Others are chemotherapy and biological therapy.

                    Bleeding after menopause is far from normal, please consult your gynecologist if you go through this or have unusual pelvic pain and bleeding. Don’t forget to get you screenings done regularly for maintenance of your health.

                    All you need to know about tampon tax!

                    Cindy

                    Tampon tax or period tax has gained popularity due to period products being subjected to sales tax or value-added tax. Tampons are a basic essential since periods are a biological function. Items that are exempted from taxes are candies, viagra, chapsticks, fruit rollups, doughnuts and the list continues. So why are tampons being taxed?

                    The tampon tax is economically unjust and a discriminatory burden. The tampon tax should be repealed to assist low-income women who cannot afford menstrual supplies. This is a type of economic retaliation against poor women simply for being women. Owing to the high cost of sanitary products, homeless people often resort to stealing them. As we know that period poverty is becoming more prominent, approaches for assisting low-income women should not be bound by redundant taxes.

                    The tampon tax is a regressive tax, which means it takes a larger proportion of a poor woman's income than it does of a wealthy woman's income. Since tampons are technically classified as medical devices, they should be considered as such in the tax code and made non-taxable. Tampons were categorized as "luxury items" by patriarchal governments, with little to no input and involvement from women.

                    Menstrual hygiene is a human rights issue since it is associated with health, sanitation, education, and work. The tampon tax should be abolished to strengthen gender equality. The elimination of the tampon tax for reasons of gender equality sends a message to society that cycles are not anything to be ashamed of.

                    In 2018, India abolished its 12% tax on feminine hygiene products. After a year of campaigning by activist organizations and even celebrities, the decision has been made. After months of lobbying, India's sanitary pad tax, which was set at 12% under the Goods and Services Act, was repealed in 2018. 

                    Australia is making headway, having abolished the tampon tax for citizens in 2019. Tesco became the first UK store to absorb the 5% Tampon Tax VAT themselves in August 2017, meaning consumers didn't have to pay extra for sanitary products. On January 1, 2021, the United Kingdom became the latest country to reform its sanitary product policies, abolishing the so-called tampon tax, no longer classifying the goods as non-essential, and withdrawing additional costs which many have described as sexist.

                    The international campaign for free tampons intends to bring the subject of menstrual health into the public sphere. Periods aren't a luxury, and period-related items shouldn't be viewed as such. That’s on, period!

                      Celebrating puberty in Assam through Tuloni Biya

                      Divya

                      Tuloni Biya also known as a small wedding that is celebrated during a person's menarche, it is
                      celebrated with the same enthusiasm as like a real wedding. Tuloni Biya is a ritualistic symbolic
                      wedding that is performed on the 11th day after the person’s 1st period. The main aim to celebrate
                      this is to pray to God to give the person a good healthy reproductive system. 
                      The reason this takes place is in accordance with Hindu mythology, when Goddess Sati had
                      committed suicide, her husband Lord Shiva became enraged and did Tandava Nritya while
                      holding her dead body over his shoulder. To calm him down in this situation, Lord Vishnu cut
                      her body into 108 pieces using his Sudarshan chakra. These pieces were thrown all across India
                      and Goddess Sati’s womb fell on the Nilachal hills of Assam, which is the location of the famous
                      Kamakhya Temple. Assamese believe the Goddess still undergoes her menstruation once every
                      year and during this time, the temple remains shut for 3 days and so does every other temple in
                      Assam. Assamese believe that if the Goddess can be impure then so can human beings. Hence,
                      when children of Assamese families reach puberty starting with their menstruation for the first
                      time, they are considered to be impure. 
                      During their menstruation they are asked to stay in the house in a separate room, for a few days
                      nobody is allowed to see the person menstruating. Looking at the sun, moon or stars is
                      considered a bad omen. They have strict restrictions on what they are allowed to eat, where they
                      are to sleep, whom they go and meet, etc. They are asked to stay in a secluded room in darkness
                      so that their ‘impurity’ does not spread.
                      After her period she is taken out of her room where she was secluded and made to take a bath in
                      front of the ladies of the house. Soon after that she undergoes a puja where she is to be married
                      to a banana plant near her bathing area. During the marriage a few women from a different area
                      pretend to be from the bridegroom’s side and visit the girl’s house, singing wedding songs where
                      the girl’s mother and other family members welcome them with many lavish and expensive gifts.
                      This ritual has many downsides since it considers the process of menstruation impure but at the
                      same time, it encourages people not to be ashamed of their period.

                      Pelvic inflammatory diseases

                      Cindy

                      Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is an infection that causes swelling of women’s reproductive
                      organs including the fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries and vagina. It is prompted by a sexually
                      transmitted infection (STI) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. Pelvic inflammatory disease
                      normally manifests itself in two stages. The organisms first infect the cervix. Then it proceeds up
                      to the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries but only in around 10% of women. 
                      Early on, you may not find any symptoms of PID. However, as the infection worsens, you can
                      experience lower abdominal and pelvic discomfort, your vaginal discharge is heavy and has an
                      unpleasant odor, bleeding in the intervals between cycles, pain during sexual intercourse, chills
                      and fever, when you go to the bathroom you may experience pain or difficulty and feelings of
                      nausea and vomiting.
                      Scar tissue and pockets of contaminated fluid (abscesses) will accumulate in the reproductive
                      tract if PID is not treated, causing permanent damage. Bacteria may get up into the top portion of
                      the reproductive tract during childbirth, after placing an intrauterine system (IUD), or after an
                      abortion procedure causing pelvic inflammatory disease. All of these series of steps have a
                      chance of causing infection particularly if the patient has an STI. 
                      Since the infection location cannot be readily tested, diagnosing pelvic inflammatory disease is
                      not always simple. In addition, the symptoms may be mistaken for those of the other diseases
                      such as appendicitis. Other treatment, such as laparoscopy which is when a doctor will insert a
                      tiny, lighted instrument through a small incision in your abdomen to examine your pelvic organs
                      throughout this process and ultrasound which is a test that uses sound waves to create images of
                      your reproductive organs could be used if the diagnosis is not definite. Within ten to fourteen
                      days of antibiotic treatment, several cases of pelvic inflammatory disease resolve. More serious
                      cases may require hospitalization. 
                      Antibiotics are by far the most common treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease and they can
                      generally cure the infection on their own, due to the fact that pelvic inflammatory disease is often
                      due to numerous types of two organisms and sometimes more antibiotics may be required. 
                      Pelvic inflammatory disease can be treated and avoided from causing further complications with
                      timely treatment and follow up care. Follow your doctor’s instructions, complete all of your
                      medications prescribed. Make sure to maintain regular scheduled checkups and abide by the
                      prevention guidelines.

                      Why has the average Period age Decreased?

                      Krislyn 

                      To understand why the average age you first get your period has decreased we need to
                      understand the meaning of the term menarche. Menarche is the first occurrence of your
                      menstruation cycle. Researchers found out that the age of when a girl starts puberty continues to
                      decrease 4-5 months every 10 years. A century ago it was 14 years and now some even start
                      puberty at the age of 8-10.
                       The average age at menarche for a girl from Europe ranges from 12.6 years to 15.2 years. The
                      average age for North American girls varies from 12.5 years to 13.8 years and the average age
                      for Asian girls ranges from 12.7 years to 18.1 years. This average has decreased over the years.
                      When puberty begins early, it generally means that the body’s normal maturing process has sped
                      up. We usually think that puberty starts with getting your first period but it is actually when the
                      breasts start budding, it typically starts earlier with girls who are chubbier and have higher body
                      mass index.
                      Research has shown that girls who get their puberty sooner are also at higher risk for depression
                      and eating disorders, they are also more likely to engage in sexual activity earlier.
                      Some factors that may affect early menarche is: - Stress. Researchers have found that stress can
                      be a factor affecting puberty and menarche early, it has a role in everything from chronic
                      headaches to heart diseases. High levels of stress at home, school, with friends, can actually
                      change the way the neural endocrine system functions, basically changing the links from the
                      brain to the body.
                      Another factor that may contribute to early puberty onset is an increase in exposure to the toxins
                      present in the environment. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCS) which are commonly found
                      in plastics and pesticides can mimic the hormones in the body. From our food to our furniture,
                      even in the water we drink or the water bottle we drink out of.  Some EDCs can also cause
                      obesity, EDCs are so much a part of our lives, it’s almost impossible to eliminate them.
                      The Cancer Fund had an analysis using existing data on this topic and found that early menarche
                      is a risk factor for breast cancer development later in their life.
                      Menarche may be delayed by poor nutrition, high levels of exercise and several medical
                      conditions, such as diabetes, heart diseases etc. Early menarche may occur with other conditions,
                      such as hypothyroidism, Central nervous system tumors, and head trauma caused by accidents.
                      A girl’s first period is a significant milestone in her overall development, but it is a highly
                      variable and environmentally fragile indicator of maturation and because of this more researches
                      need to be conducted to get to the root of the problem.

                      Abused women have worse menopause symptoms

                      Divya

                      Menopause is defined as the time in a person’s life when they have gone 12 consecutive months
                      without getting their period, thus marking the end of their menstruation and fertility. For most
                      people it happens at the age of 51. All the people going through menopause experience a drop in
                      hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone. This decrease in hormones leads to hot flushes and
                      night sweats also called vasomotor symptoms or VMS, and this is experienced by more than 70
                      percent of menopausal people. A hot flush or a hot flash is a feeling of intense heat, followed by
                      sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. In a recent study it is shown that people who have
                      suffered childhood abuse experience more hot flushes while sleeping than those who haven’t.
                      People who experience frequent VMS overall have a reduced quality of life. There are many
                      other difficulties that people go through during menopause and it's just worse for people who
                      have been abused. Some of the difficulties being:
                       Difficulty sleeping (51.7 percent)
                       Hot flashes (39.9 percent)
                       Night sweats (34.4 percent)
                       Vaginal dryness (31.5 percent)
                       Pain during intercourse (17.6 percent)
                       Vaginal irritation (12.9 percent)
                       Bowel/bladder problems
                       Thinking and memory problems.
                      They are also more likely to suffer from sleep and mood disturbances which can have a negative
                      effect on their lives at home and workplace. A research led by Tracie Afifi reveals that children
                      who suffer any type of abuse including physical, emotional, mental and sexual have increased
                      odds of suffering during their menopause and health problems in the future like high blood
                      pressure, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer etc. In the study researchers found that 1 in 5 women
                      had been emotionally abused by their current or former partners and that these women had
                      higher odds of night sweats by 50% and 60% higher odds of painful intercourse. Stress caused
                      by abuse or other trauma may play a role in hormonal changes that affect menopause.

                      How does periods worsen asthma?

                      Krislyn

                      Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the lungs. It causes your airways to swell and narrow
                      which may produce extra mucus, this in turn makes it hard to breathe and can trigger coughing
                      fits and wheezing.
                      Some women that have asthma have reported that their symptoms worsen just before their period
                      starts or even during it. This is because the progesterone and estrogen levels fluctuate before and
                      during the course of your cycle.
                      Women with severe asthma have worse symptoms during pregnancy. But many women have
                      reported that they have noticed an improvement when they are pregnant. Asthma symptoms can
                      get worse during perimenopause (menopause transition several years before menopause).
                      Some ways to manage your asthma symptoms even when your hormone levels fluctuate is too
                       Take preventer medicine on time as prescribed to you to avoid any triggers or coughing
                      fits
                       Keep a diary or journal and note down any symptoms to keep track of what triggers your
                      asthma
                      You can ask your doctor about going on the pill (an oral contraceptive) which has helped
                      some women to get less severe symptoms around their cycles. Also, ask your doctor if any
                      medications that you take for pain during your menstrual cycle causes an asthma flare.
                      In addition to the menstrual cycle, other changes too can cause hormone levels to change which
                      causes asthma symptoms to improve or worsen. For e.g.:
                       Irregular periods. Women with irregular cycles may have worse asthma symptoms than
                      women with regular period cycles.
                       Menopause. During menopause estrogen and progesterone levels drop causing some
                      women to develop asthma symptoms or even cause women with asthma to get worse
                      symptoms than they had. 
                       Hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement with estrogen or progesterone may
                      cause asthma symptoms to improve in some women who have gone through menopause.
                      In some studies, it is shown that hormone replacement increases the risk of asthma
                      symptoms which is contradicting the previous statement.

                      Transgender Menstruation

                      Cindy

                      Transgenders are those individuals who have a greater identity or expression that is distinct from
                      the sex assigned at birth. A Transgender man is someone who is born female but identifies as a
                      man and lives as one. This can be abbreviated to trans man, or FTM, which stands for female-to-
                      male. A transgender woman is a person who is born male but identifies and lives as a woman.
                      This can be abbreviated to trans woman or MTF, which stands for male-to-female. 
                      Trans men and women can also menstruate. Trans women who use hormones go through a
                      hormonal cycle and can go through menopause. Abdominal cramps, bloating, and headaches are
                      common PMS symptoms for Trans women. The fact that transgender men have a menstrual
                      cycle does not make them any less masculine. Trans men have periods, which they will continue
                      to have until they receive hormone therapy.
                      Transgender people can opt to take hormones which results in a hormonal cycle that is relatively
                      similar to that of a cisgender woman. This is particularly evident if they want Hormone
                      Replacement Therapy (HRT) which involves the combination of the antiandrogen spironolactone
                      and estradiol which is a form of estrogen
                      When a person's anatomy and gender identity are out of sync, it's known as gender dysphoria.
                      When you don't identify as a woman, getting your period can be a source of discomfort and
                      anxiety, particularly because many people associate menstruation with femaleness. Not all
                      women menstruate, and not all menstruating people identify as female. Gender dysphoria is a
                      medical condition that can be treated with gender reassignment surgery. This may include
                      hormonal and surgical procedures to alter a person's physical appearance in order to help them
                      live their lives in accordance with their gender identity.
                      Transgender men with a functioning vagina, ovaries, and uterus will become pregnant.
                      Pregnancy and birthing procedures are normally the same for transgender people regardless of
                      previous hormone replacement therapy treatments.
                      Trans people are often impoverished and unemployed as a result of social stigma, making it
                      much more difficult to obtain proper medical care. This discrimination is also visible in the
                      healthcare sector, where medical professionals are frequently disrespectful and untrained to deal
                      with transgender people's unique needs.

                      How Music Affects Us on Our Period?

                      Dyandra

                      Doesn't matter whether it is Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, George Benson, or Fifth Dimension, we
                      can all agree that music is now part of our daily lives, pretty much an essential, it reaches out to
                      our feelings, it opens our minds, and it expands our horizon. But what are the effects of music
                      during our period?
                      Each month, approximately on day 15 - 18 (Counting from one's period Calendar), we
                      experience sudden hormone changes, which might affect our moods and the ways we perceive
                      things, from previous days of ultra - positivity, to suddenly feeling tired, exhausted, and perhaps
                      demons of dark thoughts might even crawl in. This might get even more intense on the days
                      leading up to, and on the first few days of our period.
                      In those days where we're feeling unmoored, things about us tend to change as well, perhaps our
                      usual self would gladly convey our thoughts and feelings to a close friend or sibling, but in our
                      unmoored days, our ways tend to differ. Maybe all we want to do is write it all out in a diary, or,
                      eat tons of ice cream and watch romantic sad films (Nicholas Sparks Adapted Movies, We See
                      You!), and of course music.
                      And then there's the menstrual cramps, the headaches, nausea, heightened sense of smell, ah, the
                      joys that comes with our period.
                      Readers, ever read a quote somewhere on Pinterest or Tumblr that practically says Music is
                      always there for us, even when no one else is? Then that sentence might be the best way to
                      describe the way we feel, as well as how music affects us during our period.
                      According to a research conducted in 2016 on the effects of music in helping to relieve pain,
                      music has proven to be contributive and effective. Although it is true that music can not truly
                      make the pain disappear, it surely can relieve it, not only that, it also allows us to feel better of
                      ourselves during our period days if we are able to choose the right music.
                      But what is the right music for our period? Well this depends, depends on the days, depends on
                      our moods, depends on the ways we currently perceive things, and of course, depends on how we
                      want the world to make us feel at that moment.
                      On the days of anxieties and sadness, look up for relaxing music. Want to feel understood? Look
                      up for songs that have poetic lyrics and magnificent storytellings. Just completely unmoored?
                      Find upbeat songs, or just generally songs that you grow up with, this will hopefully bring back
                      good memories and cheer you up. There are even multiple-hours long frequencies videos on
                      YouTube that you can find and help you feel better, just type up keywords such as "Frequency
                      sound to relieve anxiety" or "Frequencies to relieve pain", bingo! You'll find them.

                      How are periods and crime related to one another?

                      Chanchal

                      Menstruation and crime is something which should be majorly discussed about. It includes those crime limits which are assured or predicted to be encountered during the menstruation period. Back in 1980, when America looked through their crime details, they had found that crimes committed by women were defended and actions were not taken because of not having physical, mental, and emotional balance due to menstruation. Several guidelines were established and popularly this field of crime was known as menstruation and crime. Let's try understanding this, The phases of menstruation that is, pre menstruation period, menstruation period and post menstruation period have different forms of behavior within a particular woman as she crosses them.
                      Excessive and sometimes unwanted mood swings are expected during premenstrual period, and are called as premenstrual syndrome. As women tend to fall under stress and irritation during this period, and without proper mental health care, they may tend to do things which turn out to be bad and the society gets affected. Most of the crimes committed by women at this period of time are not considered because the reason given is premenstrual syndromes. This can be accepted until a level when it's not affecting the society. But, if this goes beyond physical abuse and mental abuse, strict actions have to be considered.
                      Hence, nowadays crimes committed while menstruation period is considered as a crime itself depending on the severity of the issue. Hence, a woman suffering from uncontrollable mood swings and PMS resulting in disturbed mental health peace and physical health should consult a gynecologist accordingly to help her with this. Treating this and maintaining a positive mindset while menstruating or PMSing can help reduce crimes in our society and let all of us go through the stigma encircled around menstruation and its effects. 

                        Discovery of panties in the Victorian age

                        Chanchal

                        Ever wondered how we started having undergarments for women and how they gained all of their significance? 
                        This started back in the 1930s when undergarments were just for men.  It was considered that purchasing underwear as part of your wardrobe was for extremely rich people who can afford it. Kings and emperors were one of them. Underwear’s for women just existed in the form of corsets and drawers which they used to wear under their gowns.  It is said that until the 1930s, there was no such undergarment that existed just for women. This was back in the Victorian period, though it was believed that they had an outreaching mindset, menstruation remained under stigma. Despite having huge medical advances, menstruation was never discussed about neither what all can be done to make women comfortable about it. Women faced plenty of problems as they used to be uncomfortable during their menstruation period and weren't able to discuss it. 
                        Let's see how the past age transformed from having drawers to panties for women. 
                        Drawers were first used for women so that they can cover their thighs which shouldn't be visible even if they fall off from a horse. They were best considered to be covered down the legs in order to hide them from the society present outside. Later on, in World War I, the girls and women had to work and hence to avoid discomfort, the drawers became shorter. Later on, they became scantier.  Women found this comfortable and later further transformations were done in order to make underpants more comfortable. 
                        Later in the nineteenth century, underpants became shorter and this helped women a lot during their menstruation period and helped to avoid bacterial infections and discomfort due to sweat and over-sized undergarments. This was lately but widely accepted by the society and these long drawers were then transformed into panties. The significance was spread in the late mid-nineteenth century around the people and it was no matter of shame for now to show off the garments which were put on body parts as it had real meaning and significance. Panties were made up of different fabrics including cotton, silk, which were then widely distributed and bought by women in the Victorian age.

                          Some periods aren't true periods 

                          Chanchal

                          Strange! How can some periods be not true periods? 
                          There are many factors involved that make some of the menstrual cycles false in natural
                          processes. 
                          True periods shouldn't involve any external factor, rather just the mere bodily process and
                          functions. 
                          There are many examples relating to false periods. Some of them are as follows: 
                          1. Birth control pills: A lot of us have heard about this. This is used as a contraceptive pill in
                          order to avoid pregnancy and have normal menstruation. Women taking this on a consistent
                          basis, usually face hormonal problems and can lead to heavy menstruation or irregular
                          menstruation. This is one of a kind of false period. 
                          Many of these are pills containing both or a mix of reproductive hormones such as
                          estrogen and progesterone to prevent ovulation. Hence, it badly affects the menstruation
                          cycles. 
                          2. Medications: 
                          Now, there are conditions where a girl's menarche is late, sometimes too late, and, in
                          order to achieve a normal, healthy menstrual cycle, several hormonal medications and
                          pills are given to enforce menstruation at an earlier stage which is obviously not a bodily
                          process and is forced through some external factor. This too comes out to be a part of
                          periods that aren't true. 
                          For example, Primolut N, belongs to a group of medicines called progestogens,
                          which is a female hormone. This helps in immediate periods or period initiation.
                          Also, medication like 
                          Medroxyprogesterone is used in women who have undergone menopause sooner or
                          women who haven't had periods in the last 6 months of time span. 
                          Now, rather the woman can face heavy bleeding, menorrhagia, here medications like
                          NSAIDs, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium are given to reduce the blood loss. This too in a
                          way is a factor that enforces to stop the whole cycle and can be considered false
                          periods.

                          Eco-friendly period products are better

                          Divya Bhatia

                          When discussing about shifting to eco-friendly products we often leave out disposable
                          menstruation products. Just like plastic bags, straws, plastic cutlery most disposable menstrual
                          products have single-use plastics in the product and the packaging. This contributes to pollution
                          as well but we don’t talk much about it since people consider talking about periods a taboo, in
                          spite of the fact that half the planet experiences menstruation. Menstrual products didn’t
                          contribute to plastic pollution back in the 1930s, but as time advanced scientists started including
                          plastic into the design. According to a recent study menstrual products are the fifth most
                          common plastic waste product found in the ocean. Sanitary napkins consist of up to 90% plastic,
                          they are usually non-biodegradable. They aren’t recyclable either, since they are considered
                          medical waste. Plastic is not the only problem, these products also affect the bodies of
                          menstruating people. An organization called ‘Women’s voices of the Earth’ published a study in
                          2014 on proctor and gambles ‘Always’ brand sanitary napkins. According to the study, they
                          found a bunch of chemicals that included “styrene (a human carcinogen), chloromethane (a
                          reproductive toxicant), chloroethane (a carcinogen), chloroform (a carcinogen, reproductive
                          toxicant, and neurotoxin), and acetone (an irritant).”  Many sanitary products contain synthetic
                          fragrances, which can contain 3900 different chemicals. There are many alternatives that are eco-
                          friendly and a few of them reduce your costs as they are reusable. 
                          1. The most commonly heard alternative is the menstrual cup, this product is inserted like a
                          tampon but instead of absorbing blood, it collects it. Since it does not absorb it causes
                          less irritation, it can be used for 12 hours at a time, it needs to periodically emptied and
                          cleaned. One cup can last for 10 years. This is suitable for people living in developing
                          countries since it’s a one-time investment that would help them in the long run.
                          2. Another option is to use reusable pads. They are manufactured using organic cotton and
                          are washable and reusable for a few years, similarly, there are period panties that use the
                          same technology to absorb blood. Many people find it unhygienic when it's the opposite
                          it does not release any foul odor and if you need to change one throughout the day they
                          come with wet bags in which they can be stored.
                          3. Use menstrual products that use bamboo fabrics during their manufacturing, it's an
                          environmentally sustainable alternative to cotton. Since it does not require any fertilizer
                          or pesticide while growing, needs very little water, regenerates from its own roots, and is
                          highly adaptable.
                          Over 100 billion sanitary products are disposed of per year containing 90% plastic and many
                          chemicals as well, and since they are not reusable you have to constantly purchase. Therefore
                          buying a reusable product help you and the environment in several ways.

                          Anemic women on their period

                          Dyandra

                          Anemia is a condition where a person is & lacking blood, it is a very common condition in which
                          the blood in one's body does not have enough red blood cells which reduces oxygen flow to the
                          body organs. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, shortness of breath, light-headedness,
                          dizziness, skin pallor, and in some cases, fast heartbeat. Although usually treatable when caught
                          quickly and given the right medications, anemia can be chronic, which reportedly causes 1.7
                          deaths per 100,000 people in the United States on an annual basis.
                          During a person's period, the average woman loses 6 to 8 teaspoons of blood, while those who
                          experience heavy menstrual bleeding might lose up to 80ml of blood during one cycle. For those
                          who suffer from Anemia, their periods might be even more difficult, with many experiencing the
                          worst form of stomachache, irregular bleeding, fatigue, hair loss, acne, and more extreme mood
                          swings.
                          Women who are anemic are encouraged to take better care and attention to their bodies,
                          especially near the week leading up to their period. It is heavily encouraged that they start doing
                          more effective exercises, eat more iron-rich food, have enough and not too much rest, and try
                          coping with their feelings in the healthiest way possible. In our technology-filled world, it is way
                          easier to mark and have a countdown on when our period is coming, with various apps available
                          to predict the dates of our period based upon our usual cycle, allowing us to be more prepared
                          and therefore avoid the usual tiredness and complications that might occur.
                          Although it is always better to see a medical professional if you are anemic or are experiencing
                          the symptoms, there are several foods that can help treat anemia. The foods are lists down below;
                          Foods To Help With Anemia :
                          1. Leafy Greens, especially dark ones are one of the best sources of iron.
                          2. Meat and Poultry
                          3. Seafood
                          4. Beans
                          5. Nut & Seeds
                          6. Foods rich in calcium such as milk, yogurt, cheese, tofu, etc.
                          Although our periods can be difficult and exhausting, especially those prone or with anemia,
                          there are always healthy ways to cope with any difficulties. Because we are the leaders of our
                          bodies, and we understood ourselves best.

                          Can a person never get their period?

                          TW: Mention of eating disorders 

                          Krisha Bhatia

                          As young people who menstruate, we know the effects that our monthly cycle can bring
                          physically, mentally, and emotionally. For many of us, premenstrual symptoms occur in various
                          forms and differ from person to person. These symptoms can take place in headaches, fatigue,
                          irritability, and can cause extreme discomfort which disrupts our daily life. Though duration,
                          frequency, and other period-related factors may differ from person to person, not getting your
                          period even at age 15/16 or for a period of three months or more may be a sign of amenorrhea. 
                          Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation. Although lack of menstruation is the main symptom,
                          related symptoms can include excess body hair, vision changes, headaches, lack of breast
                          development, milky discharge from breasts, and failure to ovulate. Amenorrhea is of two types
                          primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea occurs when a person has not had their first period
                          by age 14 in the absence of secondary sexual characteristics or by age 16 in the presence of
                          secondary sexual characteristics. People who have eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and
                          those who have an extreme exercise regime, such as athletes, are at higher risk. Secondary
                          amenorrhea occurs when a person has experienced menstrual periods but stops menstruating for
                          three or more consecutive months. It is much more common than primary amenorrhea. Most
                          cases of secondary amenorrhea can be attributed to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),
                          hypothalamic amenorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, and ovarian failure, along with other reasons,
                          such as a buildup of scar tissue in the lining of the uterus, thyroid problems, and pituitary tumors.
                          Although it can stem from numerous different conditions, a systemic evaluation can usually
                          identify the underlying cause. In cases of primary amenorrhea, if you are older than 16 and have
                          never had a period, your doctor will go through your medical history and conduct a pelvic exam
                          to see if you are experiencing any signs of puberty or to see if there are any anatomic problems.
                          Next, your doctor will most likely run a series of tests such as blood tests, imaging tests,
                          chromosomal evaluation, amongst others. In cases of secondary amenorrhea, your doctor will
                          first want you to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy, and will most likely conduct the
                          exams mentioned above. Treatment usually depends on the underlying cause of your
                          amenorrhea. If amenorrhea is due to lifestyle factors, altering your exercise regime and assessing
                          stress in your life are some things that may help. Amenorrhea caused by other underlying
                          conditions such as thyroid problems, PCOS, may require treatments such as hormonal
                          medication, birth control pills, and ERT (estrogen replacement therapy).
                          Nevertheless, the deep-rooted stigma attached to menstruation still prevails in our society,
                          preventing young people from having free conversations about their period, which can be
                          harmful to young minds. As young people, we must actively play our role in destigmatizing
                          periods and menstruation, by providing young people with access to accurate information,
                          sanitary products, and a safe space to talk freely about their period and how it affects them.

                          Climate change vs menstruation

                          Krislyn R Koshy

                          Yes, it is in fact true that with the changing seasons so does your menstrual cycle. It affects your
                          mood, metabolism, and especially your period pain. Research shows that during the summer
                          your ovarian activity is more compared to wintertime. The sunrays help our body to increase the
                          secretion of the Follicle-Stimulating hormone known as FSH that helps in regulating the
                          functions of the reproductive organs in the body. Ovulation frequency decreases from 97% to
                          71% in winters
                          If you live in a country with drastic climate changes your cycle will undergo some adjustments
                          like you may have a longer menstrual cycle in the winter as you ovulate less frequently. 
                          One of the factors that affect your period in the winter is that usually during the cold season we
                          like to curl up under blankets and watch Christmas movies with hot cocoa which means we are
                          less active which leads to more painful cramps and more PMS symptoms. Another factor that
                          plays an important role is Stress, during winters you may miss a period due to the stress that
                          comes with planning and preparing for the holidays. 
                          The blood vessels are compressed during winters and that creates a narrow pathway for the blood
                          to flow and due to this, the periods can get interrupted in winters which lead to more period pain.
                          Applying a hot water bag or taking ibuprofen and reduce the pain as it helps the blood vessels to
                          relax
                          Though during the summertime we are outside in the nice weather and active which makes it less
                          likely to have a heavy flow and cramps. The hot weather activities do increase bacterial
                          infections and yeast vaginitis as it creates a hot and humid environment for the yeast to grow and
                          thrive.
                          As mentioned before the climate also changes the metabolism of your body which results in
                          hormonal imbalance. In the winter the functioning of the thyroid gland may slow down which
                          leads to slow metabolism, which in turn leads to longer cycles. Your mood also changes with the
                          climate for e.g.; in the winter the days are darker and shorter which can affect your mood
                          negatively. But do keep in mind that every person is different and so are their cycles.

                          Period leaves: An Equitable Future for Women and Marginalized Genders.

                          Misha

                          Menstrual leave is defined as paid (or unpaid) absence due to a person’s inability to go to work
                          or be able to give their 100%, due to painful and/or problematic menstruation. Out of the 195
                          countries in the world, there is only a handful that provides the option of taking a day off due to
                          one’s period. 
                          South Korea, Indonesia, Taiwan, Japan and Zambia are a few countries that allow access to paid
                          (unpaid, in the case of Japan) menstrual leaves. 
                          While these countries have taken a step forward towards accommodating women and
                          marginalized genders closely in the workplace, the policies being put up are usually considered
                          controversial or are denied by the people they have been made for, in fear of feeling ‘fragile’ or
                          ‘weak’
                          A survey conducted by Reuters involving nearly 43,000 girls and women reports that 85 per cent
                          said that they experience painful cramping during their periods, 77 percent showed symptoms of
                          mood disorder and 71 percent suffered from fatigue and exhaustion. 
                          A person’s period brings about several changes in their body. While there may not be a hormonal
                          imbalance, hormonal fluctuations are extremely significant. The two major hormones that
                          regulate the menstrual cycle are oestrogen and progesterone. While oestrogen production in
                          one’s body increases, the serotonin and dopamine (the feel-good hormones) content may also
                          increase. However, this interplay and dependency of hormones means that when oestrogen
                          drops, so do the happy hormones.
                          This dynamic fluctuation of hormones leads to a constellation of symptoms in different people.
                          Some people report feeling more alert, creative and upbeat than usual. On the negative side of
                          the spectrum, the fluctuations may manifest themselves as anxiety, sleeplessness, crying spells,
                          bloating (a consequence of the oestrogen drop), fatigue and the infamous- period cramps. 
                          A hormone known as prostaglandin causes contractions in the uterine muscles to push the
                          endometrium downwards.
                          In people with more prostaglandins than others, the contractions may get intense, depriving the
                          uterine muscles of oxygen. This creates cramps and dull aches in one's lower abdomen and legs,
                          along with a special friendship with ibuprofen for some. 
                          These cramps however could get worse for some because of underlying issues such as fibroids,
                          endometriosis, inflammatory diseases etc. 
                          While all of these are general symptoms that in most cases are normal and have prevailed since
                          the beginning of time, none of them are simple enough to be known as ‘just a few days of
                          chocolate-craving-and-crying-at-the-drop-of-a-hat.’ 
                          They may or may not be a cause of distress, lower productivity and most importantly a cause for
                          a much-needed break. However, every time the issue of period leaves is addressed, it meets with the same argument the gendering of the workplace. A workplace, which less than a century ago, was almost like an all men's club.

                          Blood diseases vs. periods

                          Chanchal

                          Differentiating blood diseases and periods is really important for a woman. It helps to understand blood diseases. The features of periods and blood diseases are different and it is important to learn about them. Now, let us learn about the different types of blood diseases and its features which can help women differentiate between periods and blood diseases. 

                          The most common one is Intermenstrual bleeding. 

                          This is called vaginal bleeding and it usually occurs during periods. This is also called metrorrhagia. It usually occurs due to stress, side effects of few medicines, or even herbs that can make this happen. 

                          This is also called spotting, which is referred to as abnormal vaginal bleeding during periods and occurs as a heavy flow in women during periods. 

                          This leads to dark coloration of the blood such as black to brown. This also occurs before periods and sometimes after them too. 

                          This abnormal bleeding disease can occur due to growth in the cervix or uterus, stress, change in medications, hormonal imbalance, and, sometimes cancer too. 

                          This usually occurs due to an imbalance in hormonal levels, i.e, progesterone, which leads to spotting. 

                          Now, how should we treat this? 

                          To differentiate, the symptoms will be like, 

                          ● Pain 

                          ● Fatigue 

                          ● Dizziness 

                          ● Fever 

                          Diagnosis can be done through biopsy, ultrasound, and pelvic examination. Keeping a check on the cycle of periods, change in the amount of bleeding, or symptoms, post, during, or during pre-menstrual cycle can help treat this condition. 

                          Hence, all these above points help in differentiating a blood disease from periods.

                            Managing periods for people with disabilities

                            Divya Bhatia

                            Most disabled people get their first cycle (menarche) at the usual age as the non-disabled people. Despite the similarity parents/ guardians are more concerned about the wellbeing of the child going through menstruation, since there is always a concern about whether they will be able to handle it properly. Many of them face challenges in managing their health, they often have difficulty in accessing sufficient support and services. Having a disability can mean having difficulty in body functions/structure/mobility. This makes it harder to handle menstruation in many ways. People with disabilities may experience menstruation differently and usually in a negative way comparatively.

                            • Periods are more painful [dysmenorrhoea]

                            • Heavier flow 

                            • Usually, experience PMS [premenstrual syndrome]

                            People who are visually impaired can’t see so it’s hard for them to identify whether it’s period blood or vaginal discharge especially if they have an irregular cycle, it’s hard for them to use sanitary products. People who are paralyzed from their lower body can’t feel anything so it’s hard for them to identify when they are menstruating as well another challenge they face is to use the restroom constantly to maintain hygiene, therefore using period-proof underwear or a menstrual cup seems like a good option. People who are mentally disabled sometimes fail to understand what’s happening to them and end up finding themselves in embarrassing situations. A few measures can make disabled people feel more included in the community;

                            • Talk about the rights and hygiene need to the menstruating crowd

                            • Provide access to information that will help them take care of themselves

                            • Provide them with proper WASH facilities

                            • Educate the guardians/parents/helpers on how to help manage menstruation

                            It is important for intellectually disabled people to have a proper support system and education to help them understand their bodies. Some parents/guardians think that it is better to suppress the menstrual cycle for the betterment of the person suffering from the disability. Many of them take birth control pills to reduce the number of days they bleed. Some of them get the lining of the uterus that sheds removed [also called Minerva]. Suppressing menstruation is only allowed with consent, if the person is not in the position to make the decision themselves there are particular people who are assigned to decide what’s right for them, keeping the health and well-being as the top priority at all times.

                            Pregnancy diagnosis- cyst or an embryo

                            Krisha Bhatia

                            Pregnancy is a defining moment in a person's life. It can be a surprise or a shock, depending on

                            the mental, physical, emotional, and financial state of the family. It is also essential for the parent
                            to be in a positive environment during the pregnancy. However, it is also vital for the family to
                            receive a proper diagnosis in terms of the pregnancy because an accurate pregnancy diagnosis
                            can be a challenge, especially if the person has not been examined before. 
                            There are various types of ovarian cysts, but most form during the menstrual cycle. During a
                            parents childbearing years, the body will be preparing for pregnancy, which results in a person's
                            menstrual cycle. The ovaries produce and release eggs, which grow within a sac. When the egg
                            is ready, the sac releases the egg and dissolves. During this process, one of two functional cysts
                            can develop - corpus luteum cysts and follicle cysts. Corpus luteum cysts develop when the sac
                            closes after releasing the egg, traps fluid inside, and does not dissolve. These usually disappear
                            within a few weeks. Follicle cysts form when the sac fails to release the egg. These usually
                            disappear within three months. Other types of cysts outside menstruation may include
                            cystadenomas, which develop from ovarian tissue, dermoid cysts, which stem from cells
                            producing eggs which may also contain tissue such as hair or skin, and endometriomas, which
                            are cystic lesions that form due to endometriosis. Some cysts can be dangerous or cancerous but
                            usually, they go away on their own. Even so, a person needs to consult a gynecologist to rule out
                            the possibility of cancer. Your doctor can find an ovarian cyst during a routine pelvic exam and
                            then conduct a scan using imaging tools such as an ultrasound device. Because cysts are usually
                            benign and have little to no side effects, your doctor may not immediately recommend treatment
                            and would check your condition using imaging tools after a few weeks/months. If there are no
                            changes or your condition worsens, your doctor may request additional exams to determine the
                            cause. These include a pregnancy test, a hormone level test to check for hormone-related issues,
                            and a CA-125 blood test to screen for ovarian cancer. In cases of ovarian cysts, especially a
                            corpus luteum cyst, taking a home pregnancy test may result in a false-positive result. More
                            severe diseases, such as ovarian cancer, may also result in a false positive. Common symptoms
                            found in both ovarian cysts and early stages of pregnancy may include menstrual irregularities,
                            nausea, vomiting, and frequent urination, which is why having a detailed patient history,
                            adequate environment, and proper imaging tools is necessary to distinguish between the two.
                            There are usually two hyperechoic short lines on the dorsal and ventral borders of the embryo,
                            known as specular reflections. These do not indicate pregnancy but are a physical phenomenon
                            due to the ultrasound beam. In comparison, cysts tend to have a non-specular reflection. 
                            Although ovarian cysts are not preventable, routine gynecological exams can detect ovarian cysts
                            early. Benign ovarian cysts do not become cancerous, but symptoms of ovarian cancer can
                            mimic those of ovarian cysts. Treatments may include birth control pills, and in some cases,
                            surgery such as laparoscopy, or a laparotomy in case of a large cyst. Nevertheless, it is essential
                            to speak to your doctor and be alert to changes in your monthly cycle.

                            Ovarian Cysts

                            Krislyn Rachel Koshy

                            The reproductive system of a female consists of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and the
                            vagina. Today we will be talking mostly about the ovaries. The ovary is a part of the
                            reproductive system that produces the egg or ovum. When the egg is ready to be released it
                            travels through the fallopian tube and reaches the uterus where it can undergo fertilization and
                            become a zygote if sperms are present. They are located on either side of the uterus.
                            Ovarian cysts are sacs that are filled with fluid present on the surface of the ovary or in it. A lot
                            of women have ovarian cysts and they usually do not hurt. They disappear after a few months but
                            sometimes if they get ruptured it will cause a lot of pain. Most of them develop because of your
                            menstrual cycle. That is why it is best to get regular checkups with your gynecologist.
                            Follicles are produced by the ovary which helps in the production of estrogen and progesterone.
                            They also help in releasing the egg during ovulation. A functional cyst is when the follicle grows
                            normally in a month.
                            There are 2 kinds of functional cysts
                             Corpus luteum cyst- It produces the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone when
                            the follicle releases the egg. This is for conception. The follicle is then called the corpus
                            luteum. There are chances fluid collects inside the follicle which makes it a cyst
                             Follicular Cyst- Usually during ovulation time (middle of your cycle) the egg breaks out
                            of its follicle and travels to the uterus through the fallopian tube. Sometimes the egg is
                            unable to break its way out of the follicle and continues to grow. This results in the
                            formation of a follicular cyst.
                            Some other cysts include-
                             Dermoid cysts- They are also known as teratomas. They form from embryonic cells and
                            are very rarely cancerous. They contain hair or skin tissue. 
                             Cystadenomas- These cysts are formed when the sac is filled with mucous or watery
                            substances. They develop on the surface of the ovary 
                             Endometriomas- These cysts develop from a condition called endometriosis. The tissue
                            gets attached to the ovary and grows.
                            As stated before most ovarian cysts harmless and do not cause discomfort. But a large cyst
                            can cause bloating, a heavy feeling in your abdomen, and pelvic pain. You will need to get
                            medical attention if it gets too severe or when you start throwing up because of it. Some other
                            symptoms you need to get checked out are fast breathing, dizziness or lightheaded feeling,
                            cold clammy skin. If you have these symptoms you need to get medical help immediately.

                            National Period Day

                            Dyandra

                            We have a national book day, national film day, and even a national boyfriend day. But do you
                            know that we also have National Period Day?
                            National Period Day, or as known in India "Menstrual Hygiene Day", celebrated annually on the
                            28th Of May, which began in 2014, is a day dedicated to Menstruation and how it is not taboo or
                            disgusting, and that every women and girl deserve to have their rights on hygienic products
                            fulfilled.
                            But still, you might perhaps wonder, what are the actual purpose of having a National Period
                            Day?
                            With over 355 million women who experience menstruation in India, and 800 Million every day
                            across the world, it is vitally important to realize and acknowledge that not all of us have the
                            same privilege and access to quality and hygienic menstrual product, some never even received
                            the education and knowledge regarding menstruation, as in so many cultures and societies, it is
                            still considered a taboo and embarrassing subject, and therefore should be kept hidden.
                            But as we move forward in this modern world, this should no longer be the case. The rights to
                            education regarding our bodies and reproductive systems, as well as equal access to hygienic
                            feminine products, is a basic and essential human right.
                            Not only that, but we must also acknowledge and realize that so many girls have really bad
                            periods with a huge number experiencing monthly cramps and sickness, as well as extreme mood
                            swings.
                            The National period day was created to raise awareness. Not just to women and girls, but men
                            and boys included. It is important for men and boys to have the right idea and understand what
                            menstruation is. I mean, imagine if a boy going to camp with his sister and she got her first
                            menstruation, and yet both have no idea what to do? It'll be chaotic, won’t it?
                            With us living and existing in the golden age of social media, there are so many small things
                            everybody can do to help and contribute for the betterment of our society in coping with
                            menstruation and women's right. Something as simple as posting a 'happy national period day'
                            on Twitter or Instagram could really help raise awareness to not make the subject of
                            menstruation a taboo day. It'll also be a fabulous act to write long captions or threads on your
                            funny or memorable period experiences, so hopefully, in that way, everybody will realize that
                            one way or another, we women and girls have silly and sometimes embarrassing stories about
                            our periods and that there's nothing wrong with that.
                            But of course, it is never overrated to help in real life, and here are several ways to do so :
                            1. Donate pads & tampons to local charities and women's shelters. It is also completely
                            wonderful to donate feminine hygiene products to less-affluent neighborhoods and schools.
                            2. If you know someone currently on their period, send them nice things such as ice cream or
                            cookies, along with a "Happy National Period Day" card. It surely will not just make their day
                            better, but their whole week way more fun and they'l be in better moods throughout their cycle.
                            3. Self-love is never a mistake, buy yourself flowers and chocolate and remind yourself to own
                            your period, because ladies, we are all strong and capable and will take the world by storm even
                            during our period (Never let anyone tell you otherwise!)
                            4. Spend the closest weekend or Friday night to have a movie night or book night with the ones
                            closest to you, prepare foods, and have an all-nighter watching or reading women empowerment
                            movies & books! And have a ton of fun while you're at it!
                            Happy National Period Day!

                            How Vedas completely venerate women

                            Misha

                            The Vedas, meaning wisdom, knowledge, or vision are the oldest texts of Hinduism, structured in four different collections, they contain hymns, poems, prayers, and religious instruction which serve to preach the language of the gods in human speech.
                            Derived from the ancient Indo-Aryan culture of the Indian Subcontinent, the Vedas are among
                            the earliest written wisdom documents produced by humans, they began as an oral tradition
                            which was later written down in Vedic Sanskrit between 1500 and 500 BCE.
                            The entire concept of Hinduism is believed to have emerged from these scriptures, the Vedas.
                            But because of how misogyny continues to be hardwired into Hindu customs and practices – it is
                            hard to believe that the Vedas hold at par, let alone high status for women.
                            The Vedas, however, embody women as those of great intellect and virtue. The mention of
                            female scholars and sages of the Vedic age like Vac, Ambhrni, Gargi, etc. in the Vedic lore
                            corroborates this view (these were highly intelligent women, called brahmavadinis).
                            The scriptures also placed a heavy emphasis on the education of female children. Menstruation
                            which is no doubt, a commonly debated topic when it comes to religious scriptures is never
                            mentioned as a cause of ‘impurity’ or something that requires prohibitions/bans in the Vedas.
                            Other than that, in marital institutions, men and women were considered to be two equal halves
                            of a home. With equal roles in performing rituals and supporting one another, a woman was
                            considered to be the other half of her husband's being.
                            In the Vedas, all women are given an almost God-like status, expecting them to be
                            knowledgeable and caring.
                            Regarding Goddess Saraswati as the one who brings education, Durga as the Goddess of
                            protection, and Kali as the Goddess of destruction, it wouldn't be a far shot to believe that these
                            scriptures regard women as the torch bearers of everything extraordinary.
                            Despite this, misogynistic practices in Hindu culture, which water down women to the status of
                            second-class citizens are widespread. These ideas could've stemmed from a number of sources.
                            Maybe from insecure men, or maybe they were part of elaborate imperialist/monarchist
                            strategies that aimed to disintegrate the then- God-centered; civilizations. Or, they could so as
                            easily just be a result of vast miscommunications along years of cultural integration. The
                            possibilities are endless.
                            However, it is easy to look past the (albeit unintentional) role of the Vedas in establishing the
                            gender-based hierarchy.
                            For instance, prostitutes and widowed women had few opportunities for growth, according to
                            Vedic scriptures. Divorce and remarriage were rare occurrences and there were strict codes of
                            conduct.
                            While these might be what we now consider shortcomings that curtail our freedoms, it would
                            still be injudicious to believe that the Vedas were not ahead of their time in several aspects and
                            did not help ancient civilizations (and could now help us) in marvelous ways.
                            But despite the several benefits that we could enjoy from these sacred scriptures, the lack of
                            knowledge surrounding them is dangerous. It allows people to defend immoral ideas such as
                            patriarchy and the caste system, which leads to innumerable victims, conflicts, and centuries
                            worth of retarded societal growth.

                            So, you want to try a period sea sponge?

                            Alexandra Stone

                            A period sea sponge is a less widely known method of dealing with your monthly menstruation.

                            It's just as it sounds, it's a sponge from the Mediterranean Sea that is shaped to fit in your vaginal
                            area (although it can be trimmed for better comfort) and is there to absorb the blood caused by
                            your period. The sponge is placed inside the body, just as a tampon would, and can be worn up to
                            eight hours on end. To remove the delicate sponge, place your index finger and middle finger on
                            it and simply use them as tweezers to gently separate it from your vagina. Sponges are incredibly
                            absorbent so it's no surprise that they can be worn for hours on end without the need to change
                            them. But what are the benefits and concerns facing period sponges today? Here's everything you
                            may want to know before trying it for yourself. 
                             
                            Environmentally friendly:
                            As many as 300 pounds of period waste can be produced by a single woman in her lifetime!
                            That's over 11,000 sanitary products. As society attempts at gearing toward a more sustainable
                            lifestyle, it would only make sense to try and rectify this worldwide issue. Companies market
                            this sponge as an environmentally friendly alternative to other period products. Often, they only
                            stock menstrual sponges that have been sustainably and ethically harvested from the
                            Mediterranean Sea. If taken proper care of, period sponges can last up to six months on end. This
                            equates to over 50 pads! The cleaner you are with the sponge, the longer it can last. Here are a
                            few easy ways to properly clean your sponge after each use:
                            1. Wash it with a very mild soap under clean, warm water (refrain from using a
                            strongly scented soap as it can cause irritation instead try using a menstrual cup
                            wash if possible) 
                            2. Soak for 10 minutes in a cup of 1:10 water: vinegar mixture, thoroughly rinse
                            after
                            3. Soak for 10 minutes in a cup of water with 1 tbsp baking soda, thoroughly rinse
                            after 
                            Personal gain:
                            Many opt for the sponge because it can’t be seen from outside the body as opposed to a tampon
                            string or pad lines and can be worn during sex. This is known as non-messy sex and allows
                            women to have the option of intercourse even on their monthly period. If doing so, keep in mind
                            that you should be wearing a single-use period sponge. It works the same way as any other
                            period sponge but must be disposed of after being used once. Single-use Period sponges are also
                            great for exercise. Because of their absorbent properties, even on a heavy flow, many can
                            exercise without the worry of leaking. If exercising be aware that you should be changing it more
                            frequently, around every 4-5 hours. Once again single-use sponges should not be reused.
                             
                            Concerns:
                            There are still worries facing period sponges by researchers and medical experts. These include:
                            -       Sponges could contain particles of yeast, sand, grit, or bacteria that can heighten
                            your chances of getting an infection
                            -       These sea sponges have been known to increase vaginal colonization rates of other
                            bacteria
                            -       Evidently, the sea sponges’ texture could cause microtrauma when removed that can
                            further increase the chances of infection because it’s an easy way for bacteria and
                            pathogens to enter the vagina.
                            -       Many claims that inserting the dry sponge hurts and will take a while to get properly
                            adjusted to.
                            -       Many professionals don’t recommend this product just yet, as it needs further
                            testing.
                            -       It is labeled as a cosmetic product and not a hygiene product because it has not been
                            fully approved of.
                             
                            Important to know before use:
                            There are always instructions when trying a new product, and the same goes for a period sea
                            sponge. Here are a few notes to keep in mind before purchasing your own sea sponge:
                            1.     Sanitation is an absolute key factor when owning a period sea sponge. Make sure the
                            sea sponge is completely sanitized before each use, especially the first time you use it
                            because it comes directly from the sea.
                            2.     It’s recommended to consult a medical professional such as your OB-gyn before
                            using one.
                            3.     Avoid boiling your sponge as it will toughen the texture and shrink it, ultimately
                            leaving it unusable.
                            4.     Within the sponge category, there are two different styles of period sponges:
                            bleached and unbleached. It comes down to personal preference when deciding which is
                            better for your lifestyle choices. The unbleached sponges are a light brown color and a
                            more natural option. They typically deteriorate slower than the bleached version. The
                            bleached sponge has a very apparent yellow color which many find “cleaner”.
                             
                             Takeaways:
                            When deciding what period products work best for your personal body, take into consideration
                            how active your lifestyle is, what type of flow you have, and how often you can change your
                            period product. The period sponge may not work for every single person out there, just like a
                            tampon, menstrual cup, or pad may exclusively work for some people and not others. There are
                            other sustainable period products out there so don’t be discouraged if this one doesn’t seem like
                            the best fit for your needs!

                            All about hysteroscopy

                            Chanchal

                            Hysteroscopy is one of the major procedures carried out by gynecologists. Ever wondered what hysteroscopy exactly is?
                            Why is hysteroscopy carried out?
                            Hysteroscopy is carried out to perform an examination for the uterus or womb.
                            There are 2 types of hysteroscopy: Diagnostic and operative.
                            Gynecologists use a hysteroscope to diagnose or operate one’s particular condition
                            Hysteroscope consists of a barrel and an objective lens.
                            How is hysteroscopy carried out?
                            The cervix will be dilated by the doctor. The hysteroscope is then inserted from the vagina and
                            through the cervix then into the uterus. The doctor inserts Carbon dioxide or a liquid solution in
                            order to expand the uterus and clean away the blood and mucus present over there. Types of
                            hysteroscopy and their uses are as follows: 
                            Diagnostic hysteroscopy
                             It is used to diagnose non-cancerous growths in the uterus Or in the cervix such as
                            polyps, fibroids.
                             It is also used to diagnose repeated miscarriages. This is a rare case but it can be
                            diagnosed through hysteroscopy
                             To examine pelvic pain in women and also infertility issues.
                            Operative hysteroscopy
                             To carry out sterilization procedures.
                             To remove any intrauterine devices used while birth control.
                             To remove fibroids or growths present in the uterus or cervix.
                             Most importantly they remove adhesions, these are folds that restricts periods and
                            promote infertility in the uterus.
                            What happens before a hysteroscopy?
                            The woman is given a sedative to relax muscles or anesthesia according to the procedure to be
                            carried out.
                            What happens after the hysteroscopy?
                            The woman experiences mild cramps or pain which can last for hours to 2 days, specific
                            painkillers are given if the pain is aggravated.

                            Periods In Adolescents- What’s Not Normal? 

                            Divya

                            The knowledge we were given about menstruation in adolescents has been updated, and recent studies and research have shown that pubertal development occurs at an earlier age than previously recorded.
                            Menstrual cycles for adolescents are usually between 20 to 45 days. In most cases, menarche happens
                            when a girl is by the age of 13, the nourishment and environmental factors also influence the timing of
                            puberty. It's statistically low for an adolescent to get their first period after the age of 13, and if so
                            happens, it is recommended that an evaluation with a gynecologist should be done since it might be the
                            first sign of an impaired reproductive system. Normal menstrual cycle includes: menarche at the age of
                            13, cycle interval is 30 days on an average, the flow lasts for 7 days or less,  and usually people lose
                            around 30ml of blood, which can be measured by how much blood you lose, around 3 to 6 pads can be
                            covered in a day. identifying abnormal menstrual patterns can help in identifying potential health
                            concerns that can affect the person when they become an adult. People who are educated about their
                            menarche from a young age seem to face less anxiety when it arrives. One should get themselves
                            evaluated if:
                            • Menstrual periods haven’t started by the age of 14 and there is excess growth of hair in
                            unwanted places
                            • Lasts more than 7 days
                            • The flow is heavy and you need to change your pad or tampon every 1-2 hours
                            • Cycle is 90 days apart
                            It is common to have an irregular cycle in the first few years of one’s menstruation. Abnormal bleeding
                            can be caused by ovulatory dysfunction,  either there is excess bleeding or very little, again it is common
                            in the first few years of menstruation. It can be caused due to reasons such as:
                            • Thyroid disorder 
                            • Obesity 
                            • Eating disorder
                            • Pregnancy 
                            • Being an athlete
                            This can be treated in different ways depending on how serious the situation is. The most common
                            mistreatment includes consumption of birth control pills. This can lead to complications like thinning of
                            bones and loss of fertility. In most cases people are not educated about this and ignore it which leads to
                            complications in adulthood, that’s why it is crucial that every adolescent girls should be given the proper
                            education so they can get themselves evaluated if they happen to identify symptoms of problems in
                            their reproductive system.

                            Managing menstruation at a workplace

                            Divya

                            Menstruation is a huge part of every woman’s life, it affects the participation of a woman in their
                            daily life. Most menstrual periods are experienced in working age. The work participation of a
                            menstruating person depends on the hygiene provided to manage their menstruation at the
                            workplace. Most people use proper sanitary products but in developing countries, manufactured
                            goods are not easily available to the common crowd, and people end up using old cloth, sponge,
                            leaves, or even free bleed. To clean the old cloth or sponge and reuse them during their cycle, it
                            can be rather difficult if the workplace does not have the proper place to maintain one’s self-
                            hygiene. In cases when a person is on their period, and they work as a street vendor, or if the
                            person works in the agricultural sector, there is no access to a private place to clean and change,
                            which, of course, makes it even harder for them to concentrate on their job. In other words, the
                            unfortunate condition reduces the person’s work efficiency. Steps that can be taken by
                            companies to help manage periods while working:
                             Establishing a separate bathroom for people who are on their period: this should have a
                            constant and good supply of water so that they are able to clean themselves properly
                            when needed. It should have a dustbin and a good supply of plastic bags so that disposal
                            can be easily done.
                             Have more than a supply of sanitary pads so that if the person gets their first day of
                            period while at work, they don’t have to worry about the sanitary products.
                             Supplies like pain killers and hot water bags can help relieve pain for workers currently
                            on their period, having them stored just in case can help.
                             Allow the menstruating staff to take a paid leave 
                            The formal sector employers are obliged to provide such services, but the reality we face now, is
                            that the majority of them in fact, have little to no regard for women who are on their period, that
                            is why awareness on this issue should be raised and people should be given more education
                            about managing their menstruation during work. For some people, not having a safe private
                            location for changing used menstrual materials may lead to anxiety and stress, and in turn,
                            reduce concentration and productivity. Other people may choose to miss hours or entire days of
                            work rather than attempt to manage their menstruation in difficult environments, resulting in
                            lower productivity. For every one dollar spent on water and sanitation, there is a $4.3 return on
                            investment for people who menstruate. When people are not provided with the proper facilities,
                            they might instead choose the alternative: to change in the open. This risks the person to sexual
                            assault since there is no privacy. Ministries of health and trade ministries should take
                            responsibility to enforce regulations related to the health and welfare of the menstruating staff.
                            Improving facilities in the workplace is beneficial for health and economic development,  as well
                            as contributing to the attainment of human rights in the process.

                            What is Mirena IUD

                            Divya

                            Mirena is a hormonal Intrauterine device (IUD), it is usually used to suppress fertilization for a long period of time. The device is T-shaped and is inserted into the uterus where progestin is released.
                            After being inserted, these are the things that are going to happen;
                            • Thickening of the mucus in the cervix that stops sperms from reaching 
                            • The the lining of uterus thickening
                            Mirena is also used to decrease menstrual bleeding, after 3-14 months of its insertion, bleeding
                            decreases and it can even stop bleeding completely for about 20% of people. Mirena has various
                            benefits:
                            • It can remain in its place intact for 5 years.
                            • Can be removed anytime, and the menstrual cycle will return to normal.
                            • Can be used while breastfeeding after child birth although it's better to use it only after 6-8
                            weeks of child birth as earlier placement can injure the uterus.
                            • Doesn't carry the risk that other birth control methods have, since it doesn't contain estrogen.
                            • It decreases severe menstrual pain and pain related to the abnormal growth of uterine lining
                            tissue.
                            • Reduces the risk of pelvic infection and endometrial cancer.
                            Since many of them effect menstruation in a positive way, mirena is often prescribed to people with:
                            • Heavy menstrual bleeding
                            • Cramping and extreme pain caused by periods
                            • People who have endometriosis, anemia and fibroids
                            This method isn't appropriate for everyone, if a person has had the following problems it's suggested
                            not to use this method of contraception:
                            • Breast cancer
                            • Uterine or cervical cancer
                            • Liver disease
                            • Uterine abnormalities like fibroids can interfere  with the placement.
                            • A pelvic infection
                            • Unexplained vaginal bleeding
                            If a person conceives while using mirena, they are at a higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy (when the
                            fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, the embryo usually ends up dying). Mirena is generally safe.
                            But it's important to remember that:
                            • It doesn't protect against STI's
                            • It can cause perforation of the uterus
                            There are many side effects that might occur from using Mirena, such as: 
                            • Headache
                            • Acne
                            • Breast tenderness
                            • Irregular bleeding 
                            • Mood changes

                            What is uterine cancer and can it be prevented?

                            Dyandra

                            Uterine cancer, or by many known as Endometrial Cancer, is a type of cancer that first begins and develops in the uterus. Although in most cases Uterine Cancer can be detected at an early

                            stage since it usually causes irregular and abnormal vaginal bleeding, some may not experience
                            any symptoms at all, and having it remain undetected may lead to a worse condition, for which if
                            left untreated, like any other cancer, can lead to death.
                            In the cases where it is discovered at an early stage, surgically removing the uterus has
                            oftentimes proved to cure the condition.
                            Symptoms may include but are not limited to:-
                            1. Vaginal bleeding that occurs even after one's menopause
                            2. Irregular and abnormal bleeding between one's period cycle
                            3. Pelvic pain
                            It is advised to see your doctor if you happen to experience persistent symptoms or signs that
                            might worry you and make you feel uneasy, or even if you happen to notice mild changes in
                            relation to your reproductive system.
                            Before we talk about preventing, it is essential for us to first know and have a general idea of the
                            risk factors that might contribute to the occurrence of Uterine Cancer. Here are a few:
                            1. Obesity and unhealthy lifestyle
                            2. An inherited DNA, if someone from your close family happens to once upon a time, or is
                            currently battling Uterine Cancer, this could be a huge contributing factor
                            3. Older age
                            4. Never having been pregnant
                            5. Increased years of menstruation
                            Although it is widely known that cancer cells are growing every day in our body, there are so
                            many ways medical professionals have suggested to help the growing cells from coming to life
                            and establishing a cancerous growth in our bodies.
                            For Uterine Cancer, Below we have named a few ways on how to best prevent the condition
                            from happening to us:
                            1. Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. This is in so many ways and in most cases is easier
                            said than done, and when is not overlooked, oftentimes done wrong. A great number of people
                            have led themselves to believe that being thin means a healthy weight, this is incorrect of course,
                            since everyone has different body types and body needs, and therefore it is always preferable to
                            understand your needs first, and have an appointment with your doctor or nutritionist.
                            Maintaining a healthy, stable, and well-conducted lifestyle also will be beneficial to us in so
                            many ways, not just physically but mentally as well.
                            2. Have an appointment with your doctors or gynecologist on the risks of taking hormone
                            therapy after menopause. Having a regular twice-a-year checkup with your gynecologist on an
                            annual basis won't hurt as well!
                            3. Be more attentive to your feminine and overall body hygiene. Remember, girls, hygiene is the
                            key to health, so let's starve off that cancer away!

                            Epilepsy and periods

                            Krisha Bhatia

                            Epilepsy is a chronic, non-transmissible disease of the brain, affecting people of all ages. It is
                            one of the most common neurological diseases in the world, with around 50 million people
                            having it, and is characterized by repeated seizures, resulting due to excessive electrical
                            discharges in a group of brain cells, causing short periods of involuntary movement involving a
                            part of the body or the entire body. It is a condition that affects each person differently, and care
                            needs to consider aspects such as hormonal differences, social function, and other such health
                            aspects. 
                            Epilepsy is broadly classified into four types: generalized epilepsy; which affects both sides of
                            the brain, focal epilepsy; which affects one side of the brain, generalized and focal epilepsy;
                            where people have both generalized and focal seizures, and unknown if generalized or focal
                            epilepsy. The term ‘catamenial epilepsy’, also known as menstrual seizures, is linked to a
                            person’s menstrual cycle and related hormone levels. However, the occurrence of catamenial
                            status epilepticus (when seizures follow one another with no recovery in between) is unknown
                            but may be classified under generalized and focal epilepsy. People with catamenial epilepsy have
                            increased seizures during certain times of their cycle. This may be just before or during their
                            period or during ovulation. Imbalances in hormonal levels, such as a drop in progesterone, or a
                            rise in estrogen, may trigger seizures for people with catamenial epilepsy. Symptoms of a
                            generalized seizure caused by catamenial epilepsy may include convulsions, crying out, stiffness,
                            jerking/twitching, amongst others. Those partial seizures include jerking movements, tingling,
                            dizziness, feeling full in the stomach, staring, and confusion. Evaluation of a person’s seizures
                            during menstruation is essential in order to evaluate their frequency, severity, etc. The patient
                            must keep a seizure diary, in which they record their seizures in relation to menstruation. This
                            information can help your doctor to analyze your condition as accurately as possible. In terms of
                            medical evaluation, an EEG (electroencephalogram) test records electrical activity in the brain
                            and can show unusual patterns, which help in identifying different types of seizures. MRI and
                            CT scans may also be used. These rule out possibilities of a stroke and can show where the
                            seizure takes place in the brain. While there is no specific treatment for catamenial epilepsy,
                            medication is the first and foremost path of treatment. Anti-seizure drugs and drugs which will
                            help regulate hormone levels will be prescribed and their doses may be increased right before the
                            time in the cycle when seizures may take place. Drugs that lower estrogen or raise progesterone
                            levels may also be used, such as oral contraceptives, natural progesterone, and clomiphene. For
                            extreme cases, surgical procedures may also be recommended. 
                            In conclusion, catamenial epilepsy must be approached with the aim to not only prevent seizures
                            but also forestall further undesirable issues, such as amenorrhea, decreased bone density, and
                            menstrual irregularities. Nevertheless, lifestyle factors and one’s own mental health too play an
                            important role in menstrual health and must be considered amongst various other factors.

                            Sexually Transmitted Infections

                            Krislyn

                            A Sexually Transmitted Infection also known as STI is an infection that is passed from person to

                            person through sexual contact like oral, anal, and vaginal sex. Some STIs can be passed by blood
                            or blood transfusions. Many STIs for example syphilis, hepatitis B, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea,
                            and herpes is passed from the mother to child during pregnancy which is dangerous for the safety
                            of the child.
                            Some common symptoms of STIs include discharge from the vagina, abdominal pain, urethral
                            discharge or burning in men, ulcers in genitalia etc.
                            Diagnosing an STI 
                            Usually getting a lab test done will tell you if you have an STI. These tests include
                             Urine sample
                             Blood tests
                             Fluid sample- (The fluid from the sores)
                            Treating STIs
                            It is easier to treat bacterial STIs than viral STIs, Viral STIs can be treated but not always cured.
                            Some methods of treatment are by using:-
                             Antibiotics- They can cure many STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea. When you start
                            taking antibiotics as treatment you need to get regular checkups and take the
                            medicine on time. You cannot have sex until a week after treatment so that all the
                            sores are healed properly. There is a high risk of getting reinfected so women have
                            to get rested after 3 months.
                             To treat hepatitis B, you need to take antiviral medications which can help to fight the
                            virus and slow down the damage to the liver.
                             Antiviral drugs- This helps in treating HIV or Herpes. They can keep the infection
                            under control for many years but cannot completely eradicate it.
                            Prevention of STIs
                             By using barriers- The most popular method is using condoms. You can use a female
                            condom too. It is the most effective and cheaper method.
                             Educating people on how to prevent and treat STIs can reduce the risk of others catching
                            it. They can recognize if their partner has it or not and help them to get the proper
                            treatment.
                            If you have an STI or think you do, it is best to abstain from any sexual activity until you get a
                            test done. If you do engage in sexual activities make sure you use a condom.

                            Oligomenorrhea

                            Sia

                            Oligomenorrhea is a rare condition that reduces the duration of menstrual periods to fewer than

                            six to eight periods per year. This condition in people who menstruate is caused due to several
                            reasons such as thyrotoxicosis (which is the clinical manifestation of excess thyroid hormone
                            action at the tissue level due to inappropriately high circulating thyroid hormone concentrations),
                            hormonal changes that may have been caused in perimenopause, Prader-Willi syndrome (which
                            is a genetic disorder caused by a loss of function of specific genes on chromosome 15), Graves
                            disease (which is an immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid
                            hormones called hyperthyroidism), PCOS, Hyperprolactinemia (elevated levels of prolactin in
                            the blood), Prolactinomas (adenomas on the anterior pituitary gland), hormone-secreting tumors,
                            obstructions of the uterus, cervix, and/or vagina, Anabolic steroid use, to name a few.  
                            Symptoms that are commonly seen when someone has Oligomenorrhea may include going
                            longer than 35 days without a period, having fewer than nine periods in a year, menstrual cycles
                            that are irregular, and lastly, periods that are lighter than usual. However, one must always
                            remember that there is always scope and hope for recovery.
                            Even if it may be over a period of a few days or a few weeks or months or maybe even a year, do
                            not lose hope. Treatment for Oligomenorrhea is not uncommon and has been successfully pulled
                            off by experts and doctors before. Some of which include: positive changes in lifestyle, hormone
                            therapy, or birth control ( however, if you have a history of blood clots, it may not be safe for
                            you to go ahead with the use of hormonal birth control), treatment of underlying health
                            conditions (such as - sexually transmitted infection, thyroid condition, Benign and cancerous
                            tumors (in rare cases). 
                            With that being said, Mens Sana in Corpore Sano which means, “A sound mind in a sound
                            body,” is a motto to strive by. Even during your toughest times, because it is only through a
                            strong mindset will you achieve a strong body.

                            Hysterosonography

                            Misha

                            Hysterosonography (hystero: uterus, sono: sound, graphy: imaging) as the name suggests, is a

                            medical procedure which produces images of the uterine cavity using sound waves which are
                            later used for evaluation and diagnosis. Commonly referred to as a saline ultrasound, it is used
                            to examine the uterus and diagnose abnormalities (if there happen to be any). 
                            A hysterosonography is usually conducted in order to determine any irregularities in the
                            endometrium (innermost lining of the uterus), the patency (whether it is unobstructed) of the
                            fallopian tubes, the causes of infertility or multiple miscarriages, the presence of polyps, fibroids
                            or other masses and the causes of unexplained vaginal bleeding. 
                            Ultrasound imaging utilizes the common principle which is utilized by ships, sonars, and bats.
                            That is, when sound waves fall over an object, they strike back or 'echo'. Measuring these echo
                            waves allows one to determine the shape, size, and consistency of the object. It also familiarizes
                            them with how far the object is and whether it is hollow/solid/fluid-filled. 
                            This procedure is minimally invasive and doesn't take more than 30 minutes to complete. It has
                            three main steps, the first would be to perform the initial transvaginal ultrasound. In this case, the
                            OB/GYN inserts a special ultrasound probe into the vaginal canal. The probe emits sound waves
                            that would, later on, recreate images of the uterus on the screen. This initial scan is done without
                            ejecting any fluid into the uterus/vagina. 
                            The next step would be to insert sterile saline into the vagina. This is primarily the preparatory
                            step. The doctor inserts a speculum (tool used to examine the vagina) and cleans the cervix.
                            Soon, the sterile saline is deposited into the cavity of the uterus via a special tube. The saline
                            helps in distending or enlarging the uterus. It outlines the endometrium which allows for easy
                            visualization and measurement. It also makes the identification of any polyps or masses within
                            the cavity easier.
                            Finally, in the third step, the probe is reinserted so as to obtain images of the endometrium,
                            observe the flow of fluid from the uterus into the fallopian tubes (to check the patency), and
                            check for other irregularities. 
                            A special variation of this procedure is the Doppler ultrasound. This method allows the OB/GYN
                            to determine the presence of blood clots as well as the blood source of polyps and tumors. 
                            A hysterosonography has no known side effects on humans and one should be able to resume
                            normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, it is advised that the procedure not
                            be conducted on pregnant individuals or those with pelvic inflammatory diseases.

                            Let’s Laugh through the Pain (period related jokes)

                            Alexandra Stone

                            It's not unusual to be feeling a bit down during that certain time of the month. As much as we try

                            to deal with the difficulties facing our periods, it might be best to try and brighten up your day in
                            any way possible. Here is a list of period-related jokes that will hopefully help you laugh through
                            the hardships of that time of the month: 
                            1. Why can’t periods just last for an hour, like okay you’ve made your point, I’m not
                            pregnant you can leave now. 
                            2. How to get rid of period cramps:
                            1). Heat a towel 
                            2). Wrap towel around your lower stomach 
                            3). Set towel on fire ( the hotter the better) 
                            4). Wait until you are dead 
                            5). Enjoy 
                            1. Knock, knock.
                            Who’s there?
                            Tampon.
                            Tampon who?
                            You bloody well know who I am.
                            1. Woman: I’m having the worst period ever.
                            Husband: Are you sure you’re not ovary-acting?
                            1. When you get out of the shower on your period, it’s a race between you, time, and
                            gravity.
                            1. People who exercise to get rid of period cramps or on their period in general…
                            are the ones who will truly be surviving the apocalypse. 
                            1. Girls have periods and babies, the least a guy can do is text us back. 
                            1. Periods teach you how to get blood off of different things…
                            This is most likely why you hear more stories of men being caught for murder.
                            1. Me 80 percent of the time: *shows zero emotion, dead serious, feels no remorse*
                            Me on my period: “Why are you crying?” “I DON’T KNOW!”
                            1. Me: *is fully prepared, has all the necessary supplies, and is wearing dark clothes*
                            Period: Nah.
                            Me: *Has no supplies, has a full schedule while running late, wearing light bottoms for
                            the first time*
                            Period: Hey, I think it’s time we catch up ;)

                            It's ok to be a late bloomer.

                            Divya Bhatia

                            People usually hit puberty by the age of 12 or 13, changes caused by puberty occur between the
                            ages of 8-14. With delayed puberty, changes in the body don't occur, or even if they do, they
                            often do not progress normally. In most cases, growth just begins later. If a person shows the
                            following signs then they might be a late bloomer:
                             The breast hasn't developed by the age of 13
                             Not starting to menstruate by the age of 16 or within 5 years of breast development.
                            Delay in puberty can be caused due to various factors such as:
                             Malnourishment: A person who is malnourished tends to hit puberty later because their
                            bodies don't have enough nutrients to develop and grow. People who have eating
                            disorders lose weight and people who are actively involved in sports exercise so often
                            that they are so lean. Bodies need enough fat to start menstruation.
                             Family history; many people start their menstruation late as it runs in the family and this
                            doesn't need specific treatment, these teens just develop later than their peers.
                             Medical issues; some people with diabetes, cystic fibrosis, kidney disease, or even
                            asthma may menstruate at an older age that's because these illnesses make it more
                            difficult for their body to develop faster. Proper treatment can control these conditions
                            and can reduce the chance of delay.
                             Problems with hormones also affect puberty, when ovaries produce too little or no
                            hormones, known as hypogonadism. These can happen when the ovaries are damaged or
                            not developing as they should. Problems in the pituitary or thyroid glands can also cause
                            delay since they release hormones necessary for growth and development.
                             Some people who don't go through puberty at a normal age have problems with their
                            chromosomes, Tuner syndrome happens when one of the 2 X chromosomes is abnormal
                            or missing. These causes problems with how the person grows with the development of
                            their ovaries and the production of sex hormones.
                            A few late bloomers struggle with waiting for the changes of puberty to start. So doctors may
                            offer hormone treatment. Teens might get low doses of estrogens for 4–6 months to start breast
                            development.

                            Pregnancy & Periods

                            Dyandra Nararya

                            When you first read the title, what were the thoughts that came to your mind? Is it a "geez I already learned this stuff from 1st grade ", or "oh what is the correlation between the two?".
                            Period/Menstruation/That time of the month/Visit from Aunt Flo/Moon Time etc, etc (Doesn't matter what you call it as long as you embrace it!) is blood released from a girl's uterus, which eventually comes out through her vagina. Periods are caused by hormonal changes within the body. Hormones act as chemical messengers, letting the person know the way he/she feels.

                            Each month, there is a certain time our ovaries release the female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. These two hormones are what causes the lining of our uterus (known as the womb) to build up. The already built-up lining is ready for a fertilized egg to attach to it and then start developing into a fetus. However, if there is no fertilized egg, the lining breaks down and bleeds, as our period blood. Once our period is over, the same process happens all over again depending on one's cycle, most girls and women have a regular monthly period, but there are a few who experience a period only once in a few month’s time. Those who have irregular periods do not directly mean they suffer from an illness or abnormality. However, it is always best to take precautions and pay a visit to the gynecologist if you happen to have irregular periods, especially at the beginning of your menarche.

                            So, since period usually occurs on a monthly basis, does this mean someone can tell whether or not they're pregnant just through their period cycle? the very fact is that, although having a late period when your period usually occurs on a regular is often the foremost basic indication of whether or not you're pregnant, in a few unique cases of pregnancy experience, these aren't the case, particularly if it is a teenage pregnancy. Although period itself is impossible to happen if someone is pregnant, blood coming out from the vagina that resembles period could still occur, which is what doctors call implantation bleeding. Implantation bleeding is oftentimes a small amount of bleeding when a fertilized egg implants within the uterus.

                            Again, what's the precise definition of pregnancy, perhaps you might wonder? Pregnancy, or in some cases called gestation, is the time where one or more offspring is developing inside the body of a woman. In the past, pregnancy can only happen through sexual intercourse, in our current technology-filled world, however, pregnancy can now also occur through assisted reproductive technology procedures, such as IVF. Normal pregnancy usually lasts for about 40 weeks (9 Months), after which, the baby is born through natural birth or c-section.

                            Now that you know what period and pregnancy are, and why it correlates with one another. We hope that you, especially those who just experienced their first period, will no longer be worried they might be pregnant when their period is late. Because pregnancy can only occur through sexual intercourse or reproductive technology procedures.

                              Was it a miscarriage? 

                              Krisha Bhatia

                              Miscarriage is something that most people worry about during pregnancy, and it is a fair concern, given rate of miscarriage can run anywhere from 10%-20% among people who know they are pregnant. It is the loss of pregnancy in the first 20 weeks. At least 1 in 3 pregnancies end in miscarriage. In some cases, miscarriage can occur before you know you’re pregnant, and you might not notice anything different from your usual period. However, it is still vital to be mindful of your lifestyle during your period and pregnancy and watch for any unusual symptoms. 

                              Miscarriage is also known as ‘spontaneous abortion’ and can commonly occur during the first six weeks of pregnancy, becoming less likely as the pregnancy progresses, with rates dropping to 2%. When a miscarriage occurs before the person knows they are pregnant, it can be tough to distinguish between symptoms of miscarriage and their period, as both have similar symptoms such as bleeding, cramping, and pain. In some cases, there might also be back pain, and symptoms of morning sickness, such as nausea and vomiting, may also inexplicably disappear. Severe symptoms especially should never be ignored. Symptoms such as heavy bleeding, dizziness, and severe abdominal pain may be a sign of ectopic pregnancy and must be considered a medical emergency. Although it is difficult to know the exact cause of miscarriage, it is rarely caused by something the pregnant person has done. Everyday activities like exercise and work do not cause a miscarriage. Minor injuries also generally do not cause a miscarriage. Reasons which generally cause a miscarriage may include the presence of certain illnesses such as severe diabetes, a very serious infection or major injury, or when the number of chromosomes (genes) in the fertilized egg is abnormal. This happens at random and cannot be stopped or prevented. Miscarriages are of several types, such as threatened miscarriage- when your body is showing signs which indicate you might miscarry, inevitable miscarriage- you have excessive bleeding and your cervix opens, causing the developing fetus to come away, complete miscarriage- when all the pregnancy tissue comes out of the uterus, incomplete miscarriage- some of the tissue remains in the uterus, requiring follow-up treatment, missed miscarriage- you have no symptoms, but ultrasound shows an embryo without a heartbeat or an empty pregnancy sac, recurrent miscarriage- when one has repeated miscarriages. Treatments for miscarriages include medication, and procedures similar to those of abortion. 

                              In conclusion, miscarriage is not the pregnant person’s fault. Physical as well as mental recovery is different for different people and can be a draining process. Everyone has their recovery process and it is okay to ask for help. There is no need to rush through your recovery or push it aside. You are not alone. A miscarriage does not define you. 

                               Stains!! Let's remove them together

                              Krislyn Rachel Koshy

                              Our monthly cycle is already very taxing with all the cramps, mood swings, breakouts, etc. Now on top of all that we sometimes also leak and stain our underwear, bed, or couch. When we leak during our period it’s usually extremely embarrassing especially if we are in public. It occurs due to an unexpected heavy flow or wrong placement of the pad. 

                              At night while sleeping all the period blood will be collected inside due to gravity. So when you wake up and get up the blood will rush out and due to the flow, your pad might not be able to soak it all up at once.

                              We usually wear our least favorite underwear during our period to avoid ruining them and throwing them out. Here are a few hacks or tips to avoid and get rid of those pesky stains.

                              It is extremely easy to remove all the period blood from your underwear if the stain is fresh. It’s not always possible as many times we find the spot after a couple of hours. Use cold water while washing as hot water can make the stains worse and more difficult to get out. The colder the better. 

                              Sometimes when the stain is harder to get out we scrub it more roughly and that oftentimes ruins the fabric. So resist the temptation to put a little muscle into scrubbing and instead use an old toothbrush or your nails. You can use soaps that are suitable for fabrics.

                              If it’s still not out you can use products that are found around your house like:

                              • Lemon juice- Cut a lemon in half and squeeze it over the bloodstain. The acid can break the stains down. Until the stain is gone continue doing this and wash it under cold water.

                              • Baking soda- Add water and a teaspoon of baking soda in a small dish and make a paste (funny how the same product you use in making cakes can do this too) apply the paste on the stain and wait for a couple of minutes. Rinse under cold water and it should be clean.

                              • Salt- You can make a paste of salt and water in a 2:1 ratio. Apply the paste on the bloodstain and rinse under cold water. Repeat a couple of times until it disappears. 

                              • Vinegar- It’s a fairly simple procedure if you can stand the pungent smell of the vinegar. Pour a bit of vinegar on the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes and then gently wash it off with a washcloth under cool water. After doing your laundry it will be like the stain never existed.

                              If you are fed up with washing your panties and throwing out your favorite ones there are period underwear made that are leak-proof. They are more pricey but worth the investment.

                              Bizarre Period Products

                              Meher Srivastava

                              All women know how overwhelming one’s period can be, from cravings to cramps to mood swings and whatnot, period days could oftentimes be the worse. One hates to wear a tampon or a pad and wishes that it is over soon so that they can be free. No matter how much we hate these products, at the end of the day, these products do help us survive those pathetic days. We can never imagine not having a pad or a tampon on our period, but have you ever even wondered what women used before tampons and pads came up? Period products have a strange story and it's quite intriguing. 

                              Women have been menstruating forever and in the old times, even before the 5th century, many techniques were applied to control blood. These were very wide-ranging from sea sponges used as tampons to wool being used in ancient Rome to paper in japan to even papyrus in Egypt. It's crazy how these things were supplements to pads and tampons. 

                              Menstruation was way more stigmatized then than it is now, especially during the medieval period, where it was considered to be mortifying and associated with religious shame. Unfortunately, it was considered to be so sinful that menstrual blood was considered as a cure to leprosy. During this period women used rags as makeshift pads, leading to the term “on the rag” becoming slang for menstruation. 

                              As we enter the 1900s, In 1855 the US government gave out 185 patents for menstrual products, out of which certain products were useful like rubber aprons. The rubber aprons protected clothes from being stained but they were smelled horrible and were rather uncomfortable. Some products were quite intimidating, for example, Farr’s improved flexible uterine supporters, there is a rubber cup that is inserted inside the vagina and blood flows into a resectable. This product was brilliant in concept but its execution was quite scary. Later came the menstrual belts, These were cloth belts onto which absorbent fabric could be pinned like a pad. 

                              The first-ever commercial pad was Listers Towel but it was not sold much, as women felt shame being seen buying them. Even today this is an issue, taking the example of India period products, which are still sold by being wrapped up in newspapers or black polybags as if it’s a secret and a shame that women purchasing these products.

                              During WW1 nurses used extra cellulose, a blend of acrylic cotton used for bandages, to soak up their menstrual blood from this, Kotex gets wind of the idea and develops a cellulose pad for commercial sale and around the same time, Lister’s towel is rebranded as “Nupak” and afterward was sold extensively. Pad sales start to take off afterward.

                              In the 1930s, The menstrual cup was invented, it was a rubber cup that collects menstrual blood and stays in the vaginal canal. Later on, a modern tampon is created, made of cotton, and had an applicator.  The Applicator is a device that helps women to put a tampon inside the vagina without touching it. Tampons were mainly used by married women, as people believed that a woman can lose her virginity by using tampons. Some Period taboos are surprising and it’s crazy because people could so easily believe them.

                              Finally, all these products evolved and became what they are today. Even new products are now coming up in the market such as menstrual discs. Menstrual discs differ from menstrual cups in size, shape, and fit in the body, but serve the same purpose and the best part is that they are quite comfortable. We are so lucky to choose a product according to our body type and having so many options. These products save our lives every month. 

                              Throughout history and even today, menstruation is quite stigmatized and in many places was considered to be unholy, this affected the process of making period products. Many women have suffered because some basic products were not available for them, they just used whatever they could find at home and make them by themselves, they had no one to help, their needs were ignored and they suffered for a long time, but as the markets evolved throughout the years, somewhere in history, thankfully, they managed to finally recognize this issue and started making period friendly products for them. Hence, we now have pads, tampons, and many more products.

                              Periods & Athletes

                              Misha Bhatia

                              The number of female athletes in the past century has increased exponentially all around the globe, while this is a huge achievement, the world of sports still largely remains a male-dominated one. This results in several issues such as menstruation being kept under wraps, not only because of the stigma that (still) might exist around the subject, but also steer clear of accusations that say it is being used as an excuse. 

                              In recent years, several studies have been conducted regarding the effect of menstruation on athletic performance. However, the results vary from one person to the next. 

                              Menstruation may have both physical and mental effects on a person; whether these effects are on the upside or the down, is something exclusive to each individual. 

                              Hormonal fluctuations occur throughout one's menstrual cycle. This can result in both- a boon and a bane. For instance, consider one of the most vital hormones in the female reproductive system, estrogen. Estrogen improves bone and muscle function by increasing the content of strengthening fibers (here, collagen fiber). However, at the same time, it increases stiffness in the tendons and ligaments, making injury rates shoot up. 

                              A woman's whole menstrual cycle can be roughly divided into three phases, the first is the follicular phase where estrogen secretions spike. It is a phase where pain tolerance increases and so do the perceived energy levels. It is primarily the time to get into high-intensity workouts.

                              Next, is the ovulation phase. This is the time when a person feels like their best self with regards to muscle strength. Studies indicate that quadriceps strength and development rocket during these few days. However, there is also evidence for a higher risk of injury, for example, ACL ruptures in recreational skiers, are more likely to happen around ovulation.

                               Finally, the luteal phase. The body mass increases (due to excessive fluid retention) and so does the body temperature, during this time. While increased body temperature has no effects (other than delayed sweating), premenstrual syndrome and cramps during this time may interfere with training and performance for some women. 

                              While these are all general symptoms, some athletes may develop long-term issues such as anemia due to loss of blood during their period as well as due to endurance exercises that cause hematuria (blood in urine), gastrointestinal bleeding, disrupted osmotic balance due to sweating, and more. 

                              Another issue that some menstruating athletes have to deal with is FHA (functional hypothalamic amenorrhea). Amenorrhea is the lack of a period or the occurrence of extremely scanty periods in a previously menstruating woman. In hypothalamic amenorrhea, the hormones that are produced in the brain and then kind of cascade down to signal hormones that are produced in the ovary are not produced. So GnRH, the gonadotropin-releasing hormone that is produced by the pituitary, triggers the follicular stimulating hormone, and the luteinizing hormone that is produced in the ovary, but that signal does not translate to the production of estrogen and progesterone, so the woman loses her periods. 

                              While all of these might be considered disruptions, they've never held womenfolk back.  Numerous women have procured all sorts of accolades whenever the opportunity presents itself. From period trackers (to be prepared for one's period) to exploring and adapting to reformed period products and using prescribed medications (such as birth control pills), women make sure that they're never ill-prepared and have nothing standing between them and success.

                              Premature Ovarian Failure

                              Adeeba Shaikh

                              Before the age of 40, when the ovaries begin to dysfunction, the condition is known as Premature Ovarian Failure. A case in which the ovaries fail to release eggs or produce sufficient amounts of estrogen, resulting in infertility being one of the major side effects. 

                              Symptoms of premature ovarian failure may include irregularity in menstruation or skipped menstrual cycles, vaginal dryness, reduced sexual libido, nocturnal hyperhidrosis, struggles with concentration, irritability, dry eyes, struggles in conceiving, and vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes.

                              There are several causes of premature ovarian failure as per studies, consisting of Autoimmune disorder- Against the ovarian tissue, antibodies are produced by the immune system leading to damaging egg-containing follicles and the egg itself. Not only is this a rare possibility, but the trigger to such an immune response is also unknown. Chromosomal abnormalities- Mosaic Turner Syndrome, in which the woman has a normal X chromosome and the other X chromosome is altered, and the Martin-Bell Syndrome, in which both the chromosome show a tendency to break due to their fragility, come under genetic disorders that predispose women to premature ovarian failure. Toxin-induced ovarian failure- Due to the damage they bring to the DNA, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are considered the most frequent causes of ovarian failure due to toxins. Toxins present in pesticides, insecticides, chemicals, cigarette and tobacco smoke, and viruses can accelerate ovarian failure as well.

                              Having a family history of ovarian failures predisposes a woman to premature ovarian failure. The risk of premature ovarian failure is highest during the ages of 35-40 and teenagers, as well as women below 30 years of age, have higher odds of developing premature ovarian failure. Even any form of ovarian surgery increases the chances of developing premature ovarian failure.


                              Premature ovarian failures come with their own set of repercussions which might involve osteoporosis, infertility, heart diseases, and mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Estrogen plays an essential role in the formation of strong bones, hence, due to low estrogen levels, women may have weaker bones making them susceptible to fractures. Although infertility is predominant in women suffering from premature ovarian failure, in some rare cases pregnancy may be possible before depletion of eggs.

                              Many times, premature ovarian failure is confused with premature menopause due to similarity in symptoms. Though women with premature ovarian failure may suffer from occasional periods, they may be able to conceive but in cases of women with premature menopause, neither do they get periods nor are they able to get pregnant.

                              It is advised to visit the gynecologist if periods don’t arrive within 3 months to determine the cause. Even if a woman doesn’t wish to get pregnant or doesn’t mind irregular periods, it is important to remember that this may include increased heart risks or symptoms of bone loss. 

                              Astrological Approach to Menstruation

                              Adeeba Shaikh

                              Astrologically, the glorious wraith-silver disc entity that hangs in the sky, the Moon, and the red and barren planet, sterile to any form of life, Mars are considered important determinants in a woman’s menstrual cycle. Moon denotes liquid and Mars denotes blood. The Moon also symbolizes the ovary, womb, and oviducts.

                              Astrologists suggest that different phases of the moon correspond to different cycles of women’s menstruation:

                              ∙ The new moon correlates with the onset of the menstruation phase and represents a fresh start.

                              ∙ The quarter moon correlates with the onset of the follicular phase and represents new and fresh energy.

                              ∙ Full moon correlates with the onset of ovulation and a woman is most fertile during this phase. It represents high energy and excitement.

                              ∙ The third Quarter moon correlates with the onset of the luteal phase where the PMS kick in, represents powering down, and comes with overall self-care

                              Though it is rare for a woman’s menstrual cycle to align with the lunar cycle, it is said that the purpose of this concept is to bring awareness of one’s body and cycle and strive towards healing from wounds that stress and anxiety bring us and find it within ourselves to forgive.

                              The Moon is also considered to be astrologically tied to motherhood and related concepts like fertility and psychological aspects like emotions, feelings as well as internal experiences.

                              It is assumed that the menstrual cycle will be irregular and painful if the Moon is placed in the house of the 6th, 8th, or 12th and accompanied by aspects of any two malefic planets. Mars and Moon’s combination tends to result in menses of ladies. Excessive flow of menses is occurred due to tribulation of malefic planets (Saturn, Rahu, Ketu, and Mars). The affliction of Saturn is considered the cause of painful menses.

                              Sometimes, even though a couple is perfectly healthy they are unable to conceive a child. In addition to medical help, astrological texts are presenting planetary positions which enhance chances of conception, an example of which is Sri Vaidyanatha Dikshita’s Jataka

                              Parijata having a chapter on Nisheka, which translates to fertilization. In chapter 3, the 16th

                              sloka provides information regarding the planetary positions during the time of menstruation as well as copulation. The 16th verse explains that a woman becomes favorable to conception when the timing of her menses set in during when the Moon is in Anupachaya place aspected by Mars and the husband should sow a seed when the Moon occupies an Upachaya house

                              aspected by Jupiter and they should not copulate during objectionable periods of time.

                              It takes a few months to get the moon and mars combination and implementation of this sloka depends on a woman’s birth chart. Once achieved, the copulation must take place when the moon is in Upacayas.

                              Even though there is no scientific or medical proof which implies that astrology impacts our bodies, a significant part of the population believes in this astrological approach.

                              A Guide to Endometrial Ablation

                              Cindy 

                              Endometrial ablation is a method that precisely annihilates the covering of your uterus. The objective of endometrial ablation is to diminish menstrual flow. Menstrual flow may entirely halt in certain women. It has been created throughout the most recent decade to offer an option in contrast to hysterectomy. Excessive menstrual blood loss is a treatment for endometrial ablation. If you experience any of the following symptoms, your doctor may prescribe endometrial ablation:

                              • Bleeding that lasts longer than eight days.

                              • Excessive blood loss due to anemia.

                              • Periods that are unusually heavy, as characterized by soaking a pad or tampon every two hours or fewer.

                              Doctors for the most part start by endorsing prescriptions or an intrauterine device (IUD). Endometrial ablation may be an alternative if these different medicines don't help or in case you're not ready to have different treatments. Endometrial ablation for the most part isn't suggested for postmenopausal women or women who have: 

                              • Specific uterus irregularities

                              • Uterine cancer, or an expanded danger of uterine malignancy 

                              • A functioning pelvic contamination

                              A scope of various techniques might be utilized to annihilate the lining of the uterus. The original strategies included laser energy and a hot cutting wire to eliminate the uterine covering. More up-to-date techniques have now been created utilizing radio waves, power, and hot water. A time period of eight to ten years is suggested to look at the impacts of endometrial ablation. About 10% of patients who go through endometrial removal stop having their periods. The further 70% of people, reported having witnessed a viable decrease in their blood flow.

                               Numerous women who have agonizing periods or experience the ill effects of pre-menstrual syndrome likewise report huge improvement.  The impacts are accepted to be perpetual. However, in certain women, particularly the individuals who had this methodology under the age group of 40 years, the monthly cycle may return. On the off chance that that occurs, your gynecologist may consider a subsequent method or will exhort you about other elective medicines including hysterectomy. A large percentage of women undergoing this is highly satisfied with the results.

                              Recuperation is typically speedy, with a getting back to ordinary daily routine activities in a matter of a couple of days. You may encounter some squeezing torment in the pelvic district for a few hours after the procedure. Some squeezing agony may keep on happening for the next 2-3 days. Light blood loss ordinarily happens for a few days, trailed by a watery discharge for a week to three weeks. These can be treated by your consultant or gynecologist.  Rare complications include bleeding or being infected after the procedure, harm caused to your vagina, vulva, or guts from the hot or cold applications utilized during the methodology, etc. 

                              Endometrial ablation is only suggested for women who no longer want kids and/or has abnormal heavy menstruation. If the procedure is done during pregnancy it will lead to miscarriage. Make sure to get regular check-ups and screenings done after the procedure to avoid the rates of side effects and other alternative risks associated with this method.

                              Are you a F.R.I.E.N.D.S fan? Let’s talk about the first tampon commercial

                              Alexandra Stone

                              The word “period” had been a long time taboo in American TV history up until 1985. It was often described with indirect terms such as “Crimson wave” or “That time of the month”. Many often tiptoed around using the word in fear of the stigma associated with it. Courtney Cox, best known for her role as Monica Geller on the hit sitcom series “F.R.I.E.N.D.S” completely shocked viewers when speaking up about periods on a Tampax commercial. 

                              The 19-year-old, up and a rising star was shooting in a locker room with an aerobic getup, stating “There’s a feeling with Tampax, It can change the way you feel about your period.” This advertisement single-handedly revolutionized the perspective of viewers across the nation and brands became more comfortable than ever before with using the term. The ad started like any other commercial based on your menstrual cycle, with Cox calling it “That time of the month”. She then thoroughly describes the benefits of using Tampax and what it can do for you during the one week of menstruation each month. She subtly slips in the word period and continues to describe the litheness associated with using a tampon rather than a pad. Although Women’s menstruation continues to be danced around if possible, media outlets have come a long way since this Tampax commercial. 

                              Cox has strived for feminism in Hollywood throughout her acting career which can be seen in many of her roles but especially the one that put her on the maps, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. The series itself isn't primarily geared towards the representation of women but many of the underlying details seemed to have gone against societal norms. All three of the female roles played by Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, and Jennifer Aniston, are not viewed as supporting roles to the male characters in the show but instead are round characters, meaning each has a prominent back story as well as an essential part in the storyline. Cox’s character, Monica, often put her career path needs above her romantic life and was not seen as submissive within any of her relationships. 

                              As more menstruation brands advertise their new improvements to the menstrual world and advocate for better accessibility to period products we can’t help but thank Cox for her role in making national tv history by breaking the stigma associated with a simple word that half the population on earth continues to deal with. 

                              Watch Cox’s 1985 Tampax commercial here: 

                              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOHCtQfFn7E&t=18s

                               

                              Celebration of periods in Tamil culture

                              Alexandra Stone

                              • It’s quite common to celebrate a major event in a person’s life. These range from birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, and yes even periods. Your period is often seen as the beginning of adulthood throughout many cultures. Women are highly praised when it occurs, and celebrations are taken quite seriously. In parts of the world such as The United States, getting your first period is something kept private, only between your immediate family. On the opposite side of the spectrum places such as Tamil India begin the grand affair of events.

                              •  The celebration of periods in Tamil culture is known as “Manjal Neerattu Vizha” which directly translates to “Yellow Water Festival” and is thought of as the women’s transition into womanhood. Although the celebrations have steered away from this belief recently, in the past the event was used as a way to tell others that the girl was now at a “marriageable age” and was searching for a suitor. 

                              • During this celebration, invite cards are sent out to close relatives, friends, and even neighbors. Some families will even go as far as creating boards with life-size cutouts of the girls to admire. Before the event begins the child’s uncle will often build a kudisai which is a hut crafted from coconut, mangos, and a type of leaf known as neem. She remains in the hut during the duration of her period and the celebration can last over 15 days.

                              •  Once the hut is prepared the girl is then bathed in turmeric water, which is a plant that can be grinded up into a fine powder. When mixed with water it creates an orange paste. She remains in the hut for multiple days on end with no men allowed. Inside the hut, there lie many traditional delicacies for the girl to feast on. She is also in a fancy silk saree and showered in jewelry from head to toe. 

                              •  The function comes to an end with “Punya Dhanam '' meaning Holy Donation or Holy Givings and tends to be performed on the 9th, 11th, and 15th day of the celebration. She is allowed to leave the hut where a priest performs a “purification: of the house. This is followed by a massive feast in which everyone enjoys the traditional meals India has to offer. This occasion has been passed down from generation to generation and will continue to play a major role in a young woman’s life. As a more modern age sets over India, many of the events are slightly modified to accommodate their new lifestyle. Will the same happen to the period tradition?  

                              The Equation between Weight and Periods

                              Cindy

                              It might astonish you to discover that body weight can affect conceptive wellbeing too. Weight reduction and weight gain can both altogether influence your monthly cycle. Overweight women aren't the ones in particular who may have issues with their periods. Underweight women and women with dietary issues, similar to anorexia nervosa, that outcome in outrageous weight reduction may likewise be accidentally affecting their feminine cycles. Women absent with a lot of fat on their bodies may have fewer periods or go longer without ovulating. Starvation, just as outrageous exercise and stress, can trigger an impact that stifles the nerve center. These women might be underweight to the point that their bodies essentially quit making estrogen. 

                              During your period, it's entirely expected to acquire three to five pounds that disappear following a couple of long stretches of menstruating. It's a physical symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS incorporates a wide scope of physical, behavioral, and emotional indications that influence women a few days to about fourteen days before their period. These symptoms are brought about by the hormonal changes during the monthly cycle. PMS is normal. In excess of 90% of women who bleed experience PMS.

                              On the rundown of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), indications are changes in hunger and food longings, and that can influence weight. Studies show that women will in general desire food varieties high in fat and sugars during explicit periods of the monthly cycle; women likewise will in general take in more calories during these stages.

                              Bloating, another awkward yet impermanent PMS indication, leaves a few women feeling hefty. Since salty food sources can make the body hold water, which will appear on the scale as a brief weight acquire, it's ideal to watch your salt intake and spotlight on eating a healthy, well-balanced eating routine, loaded with vegetables and fruits, previously, during, and after monthly cycle. Drinking bunches of water may help diminish that bloating inclination also.

                              Gaining and losing weight, bloating in your belly is normal during your period. You may feel this for various reasons some of which include:

                              • Hormonal changes can cause weight gain by expanding water retention. Which causes growing or puffiness in your bosoms, stomach, or furthest points. This expands only body weight, however not fat. 

                              • The hormonal changes during your period can likewise make you gorge. In the week prior to your period, progesterone levels increment. Progesterone is a craving energizer. As progesterone rises, you may eat more than expected.

                              • It's basic for women to have gastrointestinal issues previously and during their period. Throughout your cycle, hormonal variances can prompt GI issues like diarrhea, looseness of the bowels, and stomach torment. The uneasiness and swelling in your stomach can cause you to feel like you've put on weight.

                              The bottom line is it is completely normal to gain or shed weight while menstruating. To ease water retention, stay hydrated and decrease salt intake. Move around and get some exercise. You can likewise take diuretics for water retention or magnesium for bloating. If you experience severe cramps, bloating and gastrointestinal issues make sure to consult your doctor regarding it.

                              What Is Period Art? 

                              Dyandra Nararya

                              Maybe you’ve seen that “Painting Using My Period Blood” video on YouTube that went viral a few years ago. When it was first released, it managed to take over the internet and was a trending topic. This much coverage and media attention meant one thing: It was interesting.

                              When you first saw the viral video, how did you feel? What were your thoughts? When it was first posted, the comment section was divided: Symbol of feminism and embracing femininity, or just plain disgusting. But do you know for a fact that Period Art, or sometimes known as Menstrual Art dates back long before it was the hottest thing on the internet?

                              In the 21st century, women are taught to embrace their femininity and girl power as much as they can, this includes embracing our menstruation, and openly talk about it instead of being embarrassed and treating it like some type of scandalous act. But what happens when our periods are turned into “art”? Is it too over the top feminism or is it normal and should be continued?

                              Period Art in the form of graphics, spearheaded by Leslie Labowitz was first performed in 1971, in the city of light, Los Angeles. The piece, which at the time she described as: "I wrote on a poster that I was waiting for my period, and if anyone wanted to come to talk to me, I'd be in my studio.”. It was titled "Menstruation-Wait", and she was nearly expelled by the all-male faculty from the master’s program she was then pursuing at Otis College of the Arts. 

                              Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise, or perhaps it was at a time where the world was beginning to enter a new form of modern, so she was able to have another chance to pursue her passion in art because the year after, in 1972, she received a Fulbright scholarship to study in Germany, and was determined to give another performance Düsseldorf (1972), where the audience mocked her without any single effort of trying to tolerate or appreciate; they did so by hanging painted red rags on her backdrop.

                              In the winter of 1971, Judy Chicago's period art, titled “Red Flag” (1971), shows a hand removing a bloody tampon from the vagina. 

                              Although both Judy and Leslie might be the most famous Menstrual Art artist to date, since they were the ones brave enough to do something so unheard of in a time where embracing period is still largely unheard of, they are not the only ones who have managed to do so.

                              In the 50 years after Leslie’s world-changing, captivating period art was launched, quite a few artists have followed her footsteps, Liv Strömquist’s “The Night Garden”,  her series of felt-pen drawings of black-and-white human figures with red-stained crotches that are visible, the viral “period.” photo series from Canadian sisters Prabh and Rupi Kaur, Poppy Jackson's 2014 “Television Lounge”, where she stood outside in broad daylight nude in for seven hours with her back turned to the audience, as menstrual blood trickled down her legs. These were just to name a few.

                              In our new world where female body acceptance is taking center, raising awareness through art are testaments to the female strength and female embodiment, a way to raise our voices, and the refusal to be oppressed.

                              Working In the Sex Industry on Your Period

                              Dyandra Nararya

                              Ah, period. Yes, the 7 days a month where girls and women alike bleed and not die. Our mood swings are taking right and center, the extra feeling of hunger and craving for chocolate, the cramps, the headaches. It is difficult enough to deal with while we're at school or at work. But do you ever wonder what it's like for sex workers?

                              Is it a simple "oh period week for sex worker means holiday ". Well, the truth is, according to them, period week for sex workers are not always their foe, but their friend. It gives them the benefit of being able to set boundaries since they are more sensitive and are more prone to stating how they feel.

                              However, keeping the hygiene might be the most difficult part. Most of them say they have to try their best to cover up that they are currently on their period, either by using tons of perfume or using sponges to avoid blood from coming out. Another challenge they have to face are the outfits since clothes and costumes they should wear aren't the most supportive & comfortable things to wear during one's period.

                              So what can we do to help? And yes, we can help. Instead of judging them by their occupation, we have the chance and opportunity to help make periods easier for sex workers, these includes, but are not limited to :
                              1. Donating pads & tampons to a local women's shelter and ask that they be sent to a club/brothel. If your city does not have a women's shelter, this can be done online by sending a package.
                              2. Send perfumes and hygienic products like soaps, disposal bags, and clean towels.
                              3. Send pain reliever medications such as ibuprofen.
                              4. Send black items of clothing to help them save money on clothing that will contribute to preventing blood from being visible.

                               Can Birth Control Pills Reduce Severe Asthma?

                              Alexandra Stone

                              It’s quite odd to link birth control and asthma together, but based on a 17-year study, Women of reproductive age who use hormonal contraceptives, may, in fact, have been considered to affect the development of asthma as well as how severe the condition is. Another peculiar effect of the hormones is that they often flip the asthma risk profile between genders during puberty. This means that prior to puberty asthma is more likely to be seen in boys while during puberty, we see on a global scale that asthma becomes more common in women than men.

                              Besides the natural hormones that occur within the body during development, Synthetic sex hormones, such as those from the pill, patch, and other hormonal contraceptives have been heavily investigated over the past several decades to see their impact on asthma. Dr. Bright Nwaru, an epidemiologist at the University of Gothenburg, located in Sweden, tracked over 80,000 women over the course of two decades and worked to find the impact of different types of hormonal contraception, the length of usage, the effect of BMI, and what cigarette smoking would have on the severity of asthma.

                              When the study began, about 34 percent of the women were using hormonal contraceptives, within that category 25 percent of them were using combined methods while 9 percent were using progesterone-only. Women who were older, had an advancing BMI, and more pregnancies often had more severe asthma reactions, this was also seen in smokers (current and former) as well as women with a gynecological (reproductive) condition.

                              Nwaru’s team also found that women who consecutively took the pill were often found to be less likely to have severe asthma. This was mainly seen with combined use of contraceptives but the length of time on the pill also had a significant impact. Women who had only been using the pill for one-two years didn’t experience a reduction in asthma risk; however, those who had been on it for five years seem to have the most extensive results, when compared to those who didn’t use it at all.

                              Although still being further experimented on, birth control could be a good solution in the near future to preventing critical asthma attacks. As more research paves the way into new medical advancements, it's exciting to see what’s to come, even in the reproductive industry.

                              How much is your uterus worth in the black market?

                              Adeeba Shaikh

                              The year 1954 marked the inception of organ transplants and since then, on a yearly basis organs and tissues are utilized for millions of transplants. A 29-year-old, Austrian woman by the name of Emil Knauer, working in a gynecological clinic in Vienna had published the first study of ovarian autotransplantation based on her research on rabbits. A woman belonging to southern Turkey was the first known woman to receive a successful organ transplant in August 2011 and gave birth to a healthy baby boy on June 4, 2020. Prior to the transplantation, she suffered from Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome is a condition by virtue of which a woman’s uterus or vagina is absent or underdeveloped. Since then, about 100 known successful uterus transplants have taken place, out of which 30 have been conducted in the United States.

                              As per a study conducted in Sweden on 9 triads of uterus recipients, in order to determine that in a European setting what will be the cost of a live uterus transplant, the approximated cost of a uterine transplant was calculated to be EUR 74,564 or in a range of about EUR 50,960 to EUR 99,658. This cost is a sum of:

                              • Sick leave- accounting for about 25.7 percent

                              • Postoperative care- 17.8 percent

                              • Transplant surgery- 17.1 percent

                              • Examinations and tests prior to the surgery- 15.7 percent 

                              • Anesthesia- 9.7 percent

                              • Medications following the procedure- 7.8 percent 

                              • Examinations and test after the surgery- 4 percent 

                              • In cases of readmission to the hospital- 2.2 percent

                              The cases in which the uterus transplants have met with a failure are either due to the body’s immune system attacking the organ leading to the uterus’s rejection or due to the infection following the transplant. As for the viability of a uterus transplant, unfortunately, uterus transplants aren’t designed to be permanent for the rest of the patient’s life. Due to the requirement of consuming anti-rejection medications for a lifetime to avoid infections, after the desired number of successful pregnancies, about one or two in most cases, women undergo hysterectomies. 

                              Since the purpose of a uterine transplant is conception, another option for women is surrogacy, under which a legal contract is created followed by egg and sperm retrievals from the biological parents and the embryo is transferred into the surrogate mother and if the process is successful, it leads to pregnancy. The first baby to be born due to gestational surrogacy is Mellisa Stern, in 1986. The cost of surrogacy in the black market is calculated to be about, 20,000 to 30,000 US dollars in India and 80,000 to 150,000 US dollars in the United States. About 750 babies are born each year through surrogacy. Although the practice of surrogacy is forbidden in countries like Germany and France due to their concept of violation of women’s dignity, many other countries like the US, Russia, India, Thailand, and Ukraine are considered as the most preferred countries for surrogacy.

                              Signs your child is starting their period

                              Chanchal

                              Menstruation is a part that every woman, girl, has to go through. But, there should be information regarding how, when, and at what age a girl would probably begin menstruation.

                              As this is one of the most important processes, every girl should be aware of the signs which indicate that they are about to start menstruation. Some of the signs that can be observed earlier are the development of breasts, usually in the 2 years leading to menstruation and vaginal discharge which occurs at the age of puberty.

                              These signs of puberty help confirm the menstruation process. Many girls who have their late periods, or are concerned about their late periods are advised to talk to a gynecologist.

                              A gynecologist would check for signs which assure puberty and healthy growth of the body such as the development of pubic hair, development of breasts, vaginal discharge, etc; which can then help the doctors in treating the patient so as to avoid further complications in the future.

                              Now, some of the signs which we can observe on the weeks or days leading to the start of the first menstruation are:

                              ● Acne

                              ● Abdominal bloating

                              ● Soreness around the breast area

                              ● Back pain

                              ● Diarrhea

                              ● Fatigue

                              ● Clear and more vaginal discharge

                              ● PMS

                              Acne, Abdominal bloating, soreness around the breast area, back pain, are some of the symptoms that every menstruating being would experience.

                              Clear vaginal discharge and PMSing are extremely common to confirm periods in a few days.

                              Looking for their signs helps the child more in confirming that they will be having a period soon.

                              Breastfeeding and Menstruation

                              Cindy

                              People have known for quite a long time that breastfeeding influences the fertility of a woman. The impacts of breastfeeding on fertility differ extraordinarily between people. Breastfeeding is often known to postpone your period. This can come as a welcome advantage for moms who wish to defer the feminine cycle for much more than nine months. While a few ladies don't get periods at all during the months they nurture, some get them sporadically.

                              For the most part, the more regularly a child is breastfed, the later your periods will continue. The time span of what is considered "typical" is long and changes from one individual to another. Some women’s feminine cycles continue not long after conceiving an offspring, and others don't continue their periods until the child is weaned. Moreover, a few ladies have a non-ovulatory period before a half year post-pregnancy, yet don't discharge again for a long time.
                              Here are numerous elements that decide when your period will return when you are breastfeeding. These include:
                              how frequently you bottle-feed your child
                              the manner in which your body reacts to chemical changes
                              how frequently and how long your child is breastfeeding
                              The draining you experience just after labor may appear to be a period, yet that is not what it is. This is a combination of blood, bodily fluid, and tissue from the covering of your uterus called lochia. Following a couple of days, the draining will back off and become pink or lighter in shading. Lochia and spotting can keep going for as long as about a month and a half.
                              Your cycles returning while at the same time breastfeeding is a possibility. Breastfeeding while on your period is completely okay for you and your child. Your breast milk is healthy, safe, and nutritious. During menstruation, the hormones can affect the taste of breast milk. The child may see an adjustment of the flavor of the milk on the grounds that the degrees of sodium and chloride in the milk goes up while potassium and lactose go down. This makes the breast milk saltier and less sweet during this time.
                              On the off chance that your child is being taken care of just utilizing bottles, you may discover your periods return soon after birth. Regardless of whether your periods are unpredictable or missing, you may in any case have the option to get pregnant.
                              The length of your period can likewise change and it isn't surprising to skirt a period, or in any event, for it to be a couple of months before your next one.
                              In case, you feel or have complications while breastfeeding, do visit and get in contact with a gynecologist. Make sure to have regular postpartum checkups for the maintenance of your and the baby’s health.

                              Endometrial sparing

                              Divya Bhatia

                              Early-stage endometriosis cancer is usually low-grade cancer that can be treated. Methods of EC therapy in young women remain to be determined. One option, known as endometrial sparing, is a surgical technique that takes advantage of the woman’s natural menstrual cycle to reduce the risk of cancer cells spreading through lymphatic or blood vessels from the uterus to other sites such as long bones and spleen. Doctors can perform a hysterectomy on day 1 and schedule ovariectomy (ovaries removal) for day 14. Afterward, a woman's periods will stop until she is post-menopausal. A hysterectomy and ovariectomy are not useful in preventing the spread of cancer to other tissues. If the lymph nodes are positive, treatment is the surgical removal of the lymph nodes and a radical hysterectomy followed by chemotherapy.

                              Endometrial cancer in young people tends to be low grade and early-stage hence such cases have good prognosis. Treatments depend on the age of the patient, type of cancer, and extent of spread, but chemotherapy is usually necessary. Radiation therapy and hormone therapy may also be used in many cases. The median age of diagnosis was 44 years old. The 5-year relative survival rate for EC patients was 85%. Survival rates were similar to those in older women (88% for EC). A trial in young women is underway of the endometrial sparing surgical technique compared to standard hysterectomy-ovariectomy. It will take place at several centers, including the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center. Young women who receive radiation therapy for ovarian cancer are more likely to require continued treatment than young women who receive chemotherapy alone. The increased risk may be due to damage caused by exposure to X-rays and/or the progestin hormone treatments that follow radiation treatment. The recommended treatment with people diagnosed with EC is total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO), pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. The type of treatment is suggested according to the stage and the grade of one's cancer. All these methods take away the ability to bear a child. Not all types of treatments are considered novel approaches like the “Fertility-sparing treatment” (FST) as Kistner showed in 1959. In his publication, he managed to report 7 cases of endometrial hyperplasia and EIN that weren't operated but successfully treated with progestins and one patient obtained pregnancy. Today the most common treatment is high-dose oral progestins such as medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), megestrol acetate (MA). People also use high dose progestins like the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD). Other hormonal treatments have also been used including gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, hydroxyprogesterone, oral contraceptives, tamoxifen, and letrozole. There are a few reports of surgical management. Hence a hysteroscopic resection of an abnormal endometrium combined to GnRH agonist can be performed.

                              Queer Periods (For Pride Month)

                              Dyandra Nararya

                              In light of Pride month, we are going to discuss queer periods in this article today. What do you know about it so far? What do you think menstruation means to the LGBTQ+ community?

                              For cis-born women and girls, we oftentimes see our period as that time of the month that we dread most, given all the perks and responsibilities that follows (that mood swings & stomach ache, we see you!). But to many transgender women, menstruation is seen as a symbol of female empowerment, a trait that symbolizes health and fertility, femininity.

                              When women are in the process of changing their genders from male to female, the majority will usually take the female hormones estrogen. Estrogen helps to enhance one's physical femininity, such as a higher-pitched voice, another thing that occurs when transgender women take estrogen, are the signs of menstruation like the sore breast, mood swings, headache, etc, although still without the bleeding itself. But please keep in mind, that although transgendered women do not experience menstruation like cis-gender women do, this doesn't make them any less woman, or any less feminine, because what matters is the heart!

                              Now, what about the other way around? What happens to the female-to-male (FTM) transgender community?

                              Because they were born in a female body, they do experience puberty like any other woman (except when they start taking male hormones, testosterone very early on prior to the start of their puberty). As menstruation is very feminine and really connects them to the physical gender they were born with, female's abilities, hormones, etc, this could further cause gender dysphoria, as it reminds them even more every month for 3 - 5 days that they are not born in their desired gender preferences, and a lot of them have even admitted as if to feel like they will never be "a real man". Which of course, we know, isn't true. And same goes for non – binaries.

                              So what can we do to actually help them? Well, first and foremost, let's always be kind to one another, acknowledge that every individual has their own problems and are carrying their own burdens, so let's not add even more problems to their bowl. Always remember that in the end, we are all just human beings trying to find solace, happiness, and tranquility in this sometimes very cruel world. 

                              So spread kindness around like glitter & confetti, Happy Pride Month!

                              Masturbation during periods

                              Krisha Bhatia

                              Masturbation is the act of touching your own genitals for sexual pleasure, whether you are sexually active with other people or not, and is a completely normal activity. People masturbate for different reasons- it helps them relax, they wish to understand their body better, they want to release sexual tension, etc. Unfortunately, taboos around masturbation can cause people to feel shameful about it when it is completely safe and normal (as long as you are not harming yourself or others in the process.)

                              There is no scientific evidence that suggests sexual behavior should be avoided when a person is menstruating. One may hear all types of unusual stuff about masturbation due to the taboo surrounding it-like it can cause diseases, stunt your growth, and stop a person from having children being some rumors surrounding it. Contrary to taboo beliefs, there are some benefits to masturbating during your period. Research shows that endorphins, the feel-good chemicals released after you orgasm, may help relieve stress, menstrual pain, and cramps. Orgasm also releases hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which improve a person’s mood and may help alleviate a person’s mood during their period. Masturbating also helps a person fall asleep during their period. This is especially beneficial for those who experience insomnia due to their period, as the oxytocin and dopamine from an orgasm can contribute to why many people fall asleep easily after masturbating. 

                              Everyone is unique, and not everyone would like to engage in sexual activity during their period, which is completely normal as well. Regardless, masturbation is a normal, enjoyable activity that is safe at any time of the month. However, if one is worried about it or has questions, they must speak to their doctor, nurse, health counselor, or someone they trust. 

                              What happens to a person on their period while in a coma?

                              Krislyn Rachel Koshy

                              A person is said to be in a coma when they are in a state of unconsciousness for a long period of time. The said person cannot be woken up. Comas occur as a result of injuries to the brain like a stroke, brain surgery, traumatic head injuries, or even due to diabetes.

                              If a woman is in a coma for more than a month chances are that she will be menstruating as in most cases being in a coma does not affect the functioning of the body organs. The patient will keep ovulating and menstruating as usual. The cycle may be irregular, they may have heavy or light flows which depends on the drugs prescribed and the amount of stress the body is in.

                              In a coma usually, only the brain functions differently. Even though the brain stops working the other body functions like digestion, circulation, breathing, excretion will be carried out the same.

                              Usually, the nurses take care of the patient, they will either use a pad or special diaper for the patient so as to keep the patient clean.

                              The nurses will check in and change them every few hours to prevent further infections. There are many cases that can be found in which the patient gets pregnant and gives birth during a coma which tells us that the reproductive system works normally while they are in a coma. 

                              If the woman’s condition keeps getting worse and her body deteriorates the menstrual cycle may be suspended to protect the body from loss of fluids or worst case scenario dying

                              PMS Hunger

                              Raz Dhar

                              What is PMS (premenstrual syndrome) hunger?

                              PMS (premenstrual syndrome) hunger is the increased level of appetite or craving before or onset of a period. During the premenstrual phase, the high level of progesterone hormone may lead to high cravings and body discomfort.

                              • Why PMS hunger occurs:

                              Because of the change in the level of certain hormones such as ‘estrogen’ and ‘progesterone’

                              The hunger level rises along with the cravings for carbohydrates and sugar.

                              • Why carbs or sweet food?

                              Carbohydrate-rich or sweet food helps to relieve the low mood and fatigue occurring before a period. It does so by increasing the level of serotonin hormone responsible for stabilizing mood and feeling of well-being.

                              ▪Eating regularly helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which results in keeping the moods steady.

                              ▪Just a day after ovulation, the metabolic rate increases up to 400 calories. Due to the high metabolic rate, we feel hungrier and need to eat more.

                              • How to prevent or treat PMS hunger?

                              • The healthier food choice i.e. complex carbohydrates have the same effect as chocolate or pizza, however, complex carbohydrates last longer and do not cause a sudden change in mood or energy.

                              •In the case of sweets we can switch to fresh fruits, smoothies, juices, etc. rather than dark chocolates

                              •Physical activity can also help in mood-boosting by realizing a ‘feel good hormone’ endorphins.

                              •Consult a dietician: A dietician can help a person know more about the correct food intake and may also suggest adequate ways to control PMS cravings.

                              • Psychotherapy: People who are suffering from severe binge eating can consult a psychotherapist. A psychotherapist can help to understand and overcome the issues such as shame, poor self-confidence, depression, etc.

                                Yeast Infections down There

                                Adeeba Shaikh

                                Vaginal Candidiasis, commonly known as Vaginal Yeast Infection, is a common condition in which the balance between the bacterial and yeast cells down there is disturbed leading to a multiplication of yeast cells affecting the vagina and the tissues at the opening of the vagina, also known as the vulva. As per statistics, 3 out of 4 women are prone to developing a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Even though vaginal yeast infections do not come under sexually transmitted diseases, sexual contact does make a woman prone to them, especially during first regular sexual activity.

                                The symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are characterized by intense vaginal itching, rashes, redness, soreness, and inflammation around the vagina as well as accompanied by pain and burning sensations during sex and urination. Women have reported whitish-grey, clumpy, watery, or in some cases even cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge. If left untreated for long, the symptoms are at risk of being severe leading to possible cracks in the inflamed regions due to continual scratching’s.

                                The Lactobacillus also known as the ‘good bacteria’ in our vagina monitors the growth of the intrinsically occurring fungus Candida, but due to imbalances, a lack inefficiency of this bacteria’s function leads to a profusion of growth of yeast, leading to infections. Various factors that can lead to vaginal candidiasis include, conception, stress, poor sleep pattern, increased consumption of sugar and other unhealthy eating habits, hormonal imbalances, weakened immune system, antibiotics that decrease the number of good bacteria around the vaginal area, and out-of-control diabetes. As a matter of fact, most vaginal yeast infections are caused due to Candida albicans. The diagnosis is done by a pelvic examination in most cases, but in case of repeated such infection lab testing of vaginal cells is required.

                                In case of simple infections doctors prescribe anti-fungal creams or ointments and tablets some of which include Lotrimin, Terazol, Gynazol, Monistat, and Diflucan for a maximum of three days. The medications may differ or the doses may alter depending on the complexity of the cases. Though it is always recommended to consult a doctor, a few home remedies to treat a vaginal yeast infection are found to be garlic, coconut oil, tea tree oil creams, and yogurt which can either be consumed orally or applied and inserted into the vagina.

                                Though yeast infections are more common in women, men are prone to them as well and in their cases, it is known as a penile yeast infection. One of the reasons the groin area is more prone to yeast infections is due to the moisture and skin folds in the region. Though many times they develop so after sexual activity with a partner who herself is infected with a vaginal yeast infection. In order to prevent developing a penile yeast infection, men are recommended to use condoms during intercourse.

                                It is highly recommended to consult a doctor when any of the symptoms appear and follow the medication regime prescribed.

                                An Introduction to Periods for People Who Do Not Experience Period

                                Chanchal Mohanty

                                This is a wide-based topic that should always be discussed. After all, few genders experience menstruation and have limited knowledge about it, but the ones who don't experience periods too should have at least, a basic understanding of menstruation. Some disease-related conditions that occur in one's body can often be the cause of why someone with a uterus does not experience period, however, it is always better to be knowledgeable.

                                This will let everyone gain knowledge and have a basic understanding regarding the cycle, hormonal and uterine changes that occur every month when someone is on their period.

                                The menstrual cycle or period is a 28 days cycle when uterine changes occur. Here, the endometrium undergoes a series of changes. The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus. The three phases of the menstrual cycle are the proliferative, secretory phase, and menstrual phases. The proliferative phase begins when regeneration of the endometrium is complete, usually at the 6th - 14th day out of the whole 28-day cycle until ovulation occurs. Usually, in this cycle, endometrium growth can be seen.

                                The secretory phase starts from the 15th day to the first day of the menstrual cycle. Endometrium lining thickened, causing estrogen and progesterone to bring about secretory changes in the lining of the uterus. This is the phase where the Corpus luteum dies and prostaglandins are produced to initiate the menstrual cycle phase.

                                The menstrual cycle will start at the end of the secretory phase. Here, the Endometrium lining will shed off. This phase solely depends on the fertilization process. If fertilization has occurred, the implantation phase will be continued. If fertilization has not occurred, the loss of supportive signal from progesterone human chorionic gonadotropin causes the endometrium to undergo the breakdown phase.

                                Prostaglandins are considered to be playing the predominant role in vasomotor reactions and myometrial contractions. In conclusion, prostaglandins are responsible for uterine contraction, known as cramps, which tend to occur during menstruation.

                                Estrogen from the ovary by its growth-promoting factor helps in stopping bleeding. The bleeding will continue for 3 to 4 days and the cyclicity is considered to be around 21 to 35 days which is very normal.

                                These phases occur again and this cycle goes on until their time of menopause.

                                  Bicornuate Uterus

                                  Cindy

                                  A bicornuate uterus is a sort of inborn uterine contortion pipe irregularity in which the uterus is displayed as a heart-shaped. A bicornuate uterus has two conjoined cavities whereas a normal uterus has one cavity. This condition is in some cases alluded to as a "heart-molded" belly since it really resembles a heart.

                                  The state of your uterus is significant on the off chance that you become pregnant on the grounds that it's a child that lies in your belly. Uterus abnormalities are generally uncommon. Around 3% of women are brought into the world with a deformity in the size, shape, or construction of their uterus. A bicornuate uterus is quite possibly the most widely recognized sorts of uterine irregularities.

                                  Ladies with a bicornuate uterus are brought into the world with it, yet they probably won't realize they have it except if they go through an ultrasound or other imaging test. This is due to its unobservable side-effects. Then again, a few ladies with a bicornuate uterus report the accompanying symptoms: 

                                  • Inconsistent vaginal bleeding

                                  • Painful menstruation

                                  • Abdominal discomfort

                                  • Frequent miscarriages

                                  • Pain during intercourse

                                  A bicornuate uterus happens as a result of abnormal development of the paramesonephric ducts. When the ducts fail to fuse together correctly, the uterus becomes divided into two projections, causing the heart-shaped appearance. Having a bicornuate uterus likely will not influence your pregnancy. It could prompt issues like unsuccessful labor and early birth, however, you may in any case have the option to have a fruitful pregnancy and delivery

                                  On the off chance that a women with a bicornuate uterus becomes pregnant, her condition would be viewed as high-hazard. This implies the pregnancy would be observed all the more frequently with expanded registration on the wellbeing and progress of the child to distinguish any issues from the beginning and limit chances. The posterity of moms with a bicornuate uterus had a danger for inherent deformities multiple times higher than babies brought into the world to ladies with an ordinary uterus. The danger was measurably huge for some particular imperfections like nasal hypoplasia, omphalocele, limb deficiencies, teratomas, and acardia-anencephaly.

                                  A women may never require treatment for a bicornuate uterus. In the event that it is required, the medical procedure is known as a Strassman metroplasty.  This medical procedure might be suggested if a lady has rehashed unnatural birth cycles and bicornuate uterus is believed to be the reason. However, don’t forget to get frequent checkups done with your gynecologist to eliminate the chances of future risks and enhance your reproductive well-being.

                                  The correlation between skin disorders and painful sex

                                  Divya Bhatia

                                  Vulvar skin disorders are one of the most common things that can cause issues in your vagina and are usually a source of awkwardness during sex. They can cause discharge, itching, pain, generalized discomfort. Most of the time these symptoms cause so much sexual discomfort, that people suffering from them tend to avoid sex altogether. There are several types of vulvar and vaginal skin disorders, both usually affect the vulva (the surface of the vagina). The most common ones are Contact dermatitis, Lichen simplexchronicus, lichen sclerosis, and lichen planus.

                                  Contact dermatitis: This is the most common cause of itching and pain on the vulva. It is also the easiest to be treated and cured. The vulva skin is a sensitive spot, and many people are allergic to stuff that comes in contact with the vulva, such as pads (scented ones), soaps. Laundry detergent, wipes/sprays, condoms, and vaginal creams. Removing the irritant is the most important part, it is not easy to figure which product irritates, so it's better to stop using any of the stuff mentioned above. Water is usually sufficient for washing your vagina, there is no need for soap as well since the vagina has self-cleaning properties. Patients usually get a high dose of steroid cream this will clear up the skin reaction. 

                                  Lichen Simplex Chornicus (LSC): This can otherwise be called eczema (atopic dermatitis) of the vulva. LSC is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that starts with some type of allergic trigger similar to Contact dermatitis. It can be isolated or you could have other reactions such as allergic asthma, random skin rashes, and bad seasonal allergies. This also causes discomfort and itching on the vulva. Sometimes it gets so intense that the itching keeps people up at night and many also avoid social gatherings due to this. 

                                  Due to repetitive scratching the skin becomes thick and can get oozy, this perpetuates the cycle of itching. To stop the itching cycle it is important to understand what is triggering it and keep in mind to remove the triggers. Again, certain medications can be given to stop the itching. 

                                  Anxiety and depression can also cause this so it is better to treat them as well.

                                  Lichen Sclerosus (Ls) And Lichen Planus (Lp): These are 2 separate disorders of the vulva, they are very similar to each other in their symptoms and how they are treated. There is no specific thing that triggers them but is believed that they are autoimmune related. Many people with LS and LP have other autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or vitiligo and show blood testing consistent with autoimmune skin issues the most common symptom in LS is itching which gets worse at night, this causes pain and breaks in the skin, therefore, cause pain with sex. The most common symptoms of LP are pain and soreness. These can’t be cured but are important to be treated because if left untreated it can scar the vulvar organs (like clitoris) and can eventually lead to cancer.

                                  Period pain vs. Different kinds of pain

                                  Alexandra Stone

                                  “Being kicked in the balls hurts more than period cramps”. Almost every woman has heard this phrase at one point or another in their lifetime when the topic of period pain comes up. The fact is that this is simply false. Period pain is a universal experience that leaves many women in agony each month. The pain, ranging from poking, sharp stabs, aching, tightening, and extreme stomach aches, along with the symptoms which can include but are not limited to loose bowel movements, nausea, bloating, vomiting, and headaches, make for one excruciating week. It’s no eye-opener that menstrual cramps are unpleasant, but many are astonished to see just how painful it truly is.

                                  Due to poor health habits heart attacks are a common source of death nowadays. Celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Salvador Dali, and Irene Dunne all passed because of these unforeseen events. But the question remains, do period cramps hurt worse than a heart attack? According to Dr. John Guillebaud, a professor teaching reproductive health at University College London, menstrual cramps, can cause pain that is “almost as bad as a heart attack”. In fact, studies have found that the pain from periods has interfered with up to 20% of women’s daily activities and is a leading reason for women under 30 to miss school or work. 

                                  The beginning of life is a beautiful thing and although the idea is heartfelt, it's hard to get the image of a screaming mother as she pushes out the head of her baby, unengraved from our minds. The pain in that process alone seems unreal and both men and women can come to a common agreement that it is quite painful. Unfortunately, many women have recently disclosed that their monthly cramps hurt worse than childbirth itself. Yes, that's right, forcing a literal child out of the small, ten-centimeter cervix still doesn't hurt as much as period cramps to many. Period cramps have often been compared to the contractions occurring prior to labor. While you are on your period, the uterus contracts to assist in shedding the lining. These contractions are triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe menstrual cramps so they end up being more painful. Some people tend to have more severe menstrual cramps without any clear reason. So although not all women claim that period cramps are worse than birth, many still suffer the immense pain of their monthly period. 


                                  And the comparison that everyone wants to know, does cramping hurt more than being kicked in the balls? There isn’t sufficient evidence for a solid yes or no answer but that doesn't stop people from forming opinions. In reality, being kicked in the balls really can’t compare to period cramping. Men remain in pain from anywhere from 15-30 minutes after the incident occurs. This happens once and a while and usually isn't an often occurrence. Women, however, suffer that pain every month, for days at a time. It doesn't just go away and continues to rise throughout the day. Cramps mess with sleep schedules, hunger, work, and social life and when women bring it up they are often met with constant hostility to “not speak on this in public” or even “that's disgusting ''. Painkillers rarely do the job quick enough and yet most girls and women still attend school and work as much as they can. So is it really a proper comparison?

                                  Meet the Team!

                                  A special thanks to Maha for being an amazing social media director, and Dyandra and Alexandra for being such great editors! Lastly, PeriodPals couldn't have been a such a success without our team members working day and night:)

                                  Leisha Bhandari

                                  We present to you, the Founder of PeriodPals, Leisha Bhandari. She is a huge advocate for female rights, and cannot stand injustice. When she heard about the way so many women all around the world were treated, just for having their period, she knew she had to take a step, and try her best to put a stop to this injustice. She wants to make a better place for all the powerful women, normalize menstruation, combat period poverty, and meet harry styles.

                                  Saie Lawate

                                  Saie Lawate is a feminist who especially believes in the cause of eradicating period poverty. Saie goes by She/He/They pronouns. They're a huge enthusiast of current world affairs. Our co-founder doesn't have just one single hobby and he's probably tried his hand at literally everything he could manage doing.

                                  Your typical ambivert with sunshine vibes.

                                  Muskaan Thukral

                                  Muskaan is a 17 year old student in grade 12. She is extremely passionate about advocating on Gender equality and is a firm believer that your gender does not limit your opportunities.