What to teach boys about periods
By Karuana Mwai
Menstruation is often seen as a ‘girls-only’ topic, but it’s crucial that boys are part of the conversation as well. Educating boys about periods not only fosters understanding and empathy but also helps dismantle the stigmas that often surround menstruation.
In many cultures, including Kenya, boys who are uninformed about periods may perpetuate myths or engage in bullying, often because they don’t understand what is happening. This ignorance can be damaging, not just to the girls they mock, but to boys themselves as they grow into men who lack knowledge about women’s health.
So how do we engage boys in conversations about periods?
1. Start early and be direct
Boys should learn about periods just as early as girls. Instead of shying away from the topic as the parent, teacher, or caregiver you should explain it in simple, factual terms. For example, ‘A period is when a woman’s body sheds its lining if she’s not pregnant’ is a straightforward explanation that young boys can easily understand. The more normalized this information is, the less mysterious it becomes.
2. Teach respect and understanding
It’s important to help boys see that periods are a normal and natural part of life, not something to be mocked or hidden. Encourage him to think about how it would feel if someone teased him about something he couldn’t control. By making these connections, you can help him understand why it’s hurtful to make fun of others for menstruating.
Teaching empathy is key—help him see that respecting others’ experiences, even if they’re different from his own, fosters kindness and understanding. This early lesson on respect will shape his behavior and help prevent harmful teasing or bullying in the future.
3. Normalize period conversations
Encourage open dialogue about periods within your family. Make it a topic that is discussed casually and comfortably, whether during dinner or while watching TV. The more you normalize these conversations, the more comfortable he will feel discussing them with his peers. You might even share stories about how he can support his friends or family members during their menstrual cycles.
4. Educate on menstrual products
As a parent, it’s essential to take the time to explain the different types of menstrual products your child might encounter—pads, tampons, menstrual cups—and how each one works. Consider making this an interactive learning experience.
You could even set up a small hands-on activity where you show him how to use these products appropriately. This practical knowledge will help him see that menstruation is simply a natural process that requires management, rather than something to be embarrassed about. By understanding how these products function, your son will feel more comfortable discussing periods and supporting the girls in his life.
5. Address common myths
Your son has likely heard various myths and misconceptions about periods from his peers or the media. Use this as an opportunity to address these directly.
For instance, explain to him that periods are not a punishment for girls and clarify that they do not affect their ability to play sports or engage in activities. Providing accurate information empowers him to dispel these myths among his friends, fostering a more supportive environment for everyone.
6. Promote gender equality
Finally, emphasizes the importance of gender equality and how understanding periods is a vital aspect of respecting women’s health issues. Discuss with your son how everyone plays a role in creating a supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of gender. Help him understand that menstruation is a natural part of life for half the population. When boys grasp this concept, they are more likely to grow into men who advocate for women’s rights and health, fostering a more inclusive society. Engaging in these discussions not only educates your son but also instills values of compassion and respect that will serve him well in all his relationships.
The bigger picture
Ultimately, teaching boys about periods isn’t just about understanding menstruation. It’s about fostering an environment where men and boys respect women’s bodies and experiences. By breaking down stigmas and misinformation, you can help create a culture of inclusivity, respect, and empowerment for everyone.