Boy Talk
Hey there!
If you’re reading this, it means you’ve taken a great first step into understanding a topic that might seem a bit mysterious but is incredibly important: menstruation.
Understanding this natural process can not only strengthen your relationships with the women in your life but also break down some of the stigmas surrounding periods.
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Let’s talk basics
Menstruation is a monthly cycle that typically lasts about 28 days, although it can vary for each person. It’s a natural and major part of many women’s reproductive health. Each month, the body builds up a lining in the uterus filled with nutrients that can support a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, this lining sheds, which is what we call a period. The whole process is influenced by hormones, which can lead to various physical and emotional changes—this is why women may experience cramps, mood swings, and fatigue during their cycle.
Mood swings, cramps, and fatigue, oh my!
Understanding the different phases of the menstrual cycle can also help you understand what symptoms happen when, and how you can support the women in your life. The cycle is typically divided into four phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase.
- Phase 1: During the menstrual phase, as the lining sheds, many women may feel discomfort or pain.
- Phase 2: The follicular phase is where the body prepares for a new egg.
- Phase 3: Ovulation is when an egg is released, often marked by a surge in energy and mood. This is great for socializing and trying new things!
- Phase 4: Finally, the luteal phase can bring about PMS symptoms, where women might need extra support, whether it’s a listening ear or a comforting gesture.
So, what can you do?
Simply being aware and empathetic goes a long way. Offer a supportive presence, whether it's running errands, providing snacks, or just checking in. Your most important role is validating that periods are normal—they aren’t gross, shameful, or strange. Recognizing the complexities of menstruation shows that you care, and it helps normalize conversations around it. After all, understanding menstruation is about understanding the women in your life better, creating stronger bonds, and championing their wellbeing.
5 ways to be a gentleman during her period
Read up on her cycle phases. If she seems off, acknowledge it with compassion, not confusion. Offer to cancel plans or slow things down.
Curate her favorite salty, sweet, sour, and weird snacks. Include anything she craves during her period—no judgment, just treats.
Make a kit for her bag or car with tampons, pads, painkillers, chocolate, hand wipes, and a hair tie.
Let her pick the movie. Say yes to the rom-com or crime doc. Offer a foot massage and keep the snacks coming.
Curate a playlist of calming tracks, sad girl anthems, or power bangers. Give it a funny or thoughtful name.
Bonus move:
You can always bring your period-having friend The Cycle to make sure she’s hydrated and happy :)