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Periods are a natural and normal part of life for many people all around the world, but they are often shrouded in shame, stigma, and secrecy. Many cultures and religions view menstruation as something dirty, shameful, impure, and sometimes dangerous. This can lead to discrimination, isolation, and lack of access to education and hygiene products for people who menstruate. One way to challenge this is to use slang words or euphemisms that are empowering, humorous and inclusive. Slang words can help people express their feelings and experiences with periods, without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. They can also help people bond with others who share their menstrual woes, and create a sense of solidarity and support.
A survey conducted by the health app Clue in partnership with the International Women’s Health Coalition found that there are over 5,000 slang phrases that are used to refer to menstruation in 10 different languages.
Below is a list of some code names or nicknames for “I have my period”. Some are silly, some have historical connections and some may have negative connotations.
Classic Euphemisms:
- Aunt Flo: This term personifies periods as a relative who visits once a month, whether you like it or not. It also adds a touch of humor and familiarity to periods, making them seem less scary and more manageable.
- On the rag: This term dates back to the days when people used rags or cloth as menstrual pads. It also implies that periods make you moody, irritable, and ragged.
- Moon time – Physicians in Ancient Greece believed that the moon and the monthly menstrual cycle were linked. A way to celebrate their menstrual cycle as a source of strength and wisdom.
- Code red or Painting the town red – Captures the urgency during your period and is used as a way to signal your mood or needs to your partner or friends.
Inspired by Pop Culture in movies and TV shows:
- Shark week – This term implies that periods are fierce, powerful and not to be messed with. It also suggests that people who have periods can survive anything, even a shark attack.
- Surfing the crimson wave – This term evokes the image of a wave of blood that washes over you during your period. It also references the movie Clueless, where Cher uses this term to get out of gym class.
- I feel like Carrie – A reference to the scene when Carrie gets her first period or when her classmates play a prank on her at the prom and her white dress is covered in pig’s blood.
- The Shining – Refers to the elevator scene with blood gushing out.
- The red wedding – This term is inspired by the infamous episode of Game of Thrones, where a bloody massacre takes place at a wedding. It captures the drama, violence, and unpredictability of periods, as well as the potential for ruining your clothes.
Ancient references inspired by the Bible:
- The Curse – a reference to the biblical curse placed on Eve.
- Visiting the red tent – a reference to the literal red tent where women could retreat and let her body naturally cleanse.
Other words to announce that your “lady time” has arrived:
- Leak week
- The pipes are broken
- Lady business
- Strawberry week
- The red badge of courage
- I’m wearing my red dress
- The playground is closed
- Lady dot
- Ragging
- The plague
- The crime scene
- The Devil’s workday
- Mad cow disease
- The monthly bill
- TOTM (time of the month)
- Lady pains
- Little red riding hood
- Girlie time
- Out of commission
- The communists are coming
- Mother Nature’s gift
The bottom line is that there is no right or wrong way to talk about your period. You can use whatever words make you feel comfortable and empowered. However, it is important to be aware of how your language might affect others and yourself. Using euphemisms might reinforce the idea that menstruation is something to be ashamed of or hidden. It might also prevent you from getting accurate information or medical help if you need it. That’s why it’s also important to be able to use clear and factual terms like period or menstruation when necessary. Remember, your period is nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s a natural and healthy part of life. The more we educate and open dialogue about periods, the more comfortable we will become.
Check out The Panty Spot to learn more about feminine health and period underwear (or other period-proof clothing).